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The Imagined Community
The Imagined Community
We are drawn to be in the company of others because of instinctive forces within us that make it clear we cannot live without them. It was Aristotle who held that human beings are basically social animals and thus the welfare of the many and the welfare of the individual are inextricably linked. Put another way, many species of animals sing to each other, only humans sing together. This section is on community.
The Imagined Community (PDF)
In this essay Peter Karoff discusses the twin themes, self and the broader world, as they weave in and out of our life. His 'imagined community’ is a new wave of communities of solidarity, galvanized, and organized around critical social issues with a citizenry committed and engaged to nurture, and advocate for those communities.
Fields of Meaning (PDF)
In this essay Peter Karoff imagines a community of solidarity as a powerful life force on a mission to do good works.
Alinsky Redux - organizing principles (PDF)
The history and benefits of community organizing and giving models are explored in this essay by Peter Karoff.
The Challenge of Change (PDF)
In this essay Peter Karoff describes the challenge of change and tells the story of one man who handled it with great generosity of spirit.
Tread Softly (PDF)
In this essay Peter Karoff presents a story that illustrates the admonition that one must tread lightly when it comes to organizing communities. However, if there is a common thread to the work of philanthropy it is how to mediate different points of view, retain your beliefs, and still accomplish the end goal.
Clarion Call (PDF)
A Heart to Heart (PDF)
Peter Karoff tells the story of a successful lawyer who lost sight of his responsibility to his community, but found his way back.
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