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Community Quote by Josiah Royce

“A crowd, whether it be a dangerous mob, or an amiably joyous gathering at a picnic is not a community. It has a mind, but no institutions, no organizations, no coherent unity, no history, no traditions.” quote by Josiah Royce
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“A crowd, whether it be a dangerous mob, or an amiably joyous gathering at a picnic is not a community. It has a mind, but no institutions, no organizations, no coherent unity, no history, no traditions.”

Josiah Royce

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Philosophy of Community, Josiah Royce, 1901

A crowd lacks the institutions and shared history that define a true community.

In simple terms: Crowds are not communities without structure.

Key Takeaway

Build institutions and shared traditions.

Themes

community identity social structure cohesion

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

sociological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • neighborhoods
  • online forums
  • civic organizations
  • cultural groups

Key Concepts

collective identity institutionalism social cohesion

Questions to Reflect On

  • What institutions turn a gathering into a community?
  • How do traditions shape identity?
A Different Perspective

Crowds can become communities if institutions develop.

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