Chapter 1
Community development is rooted in several disciplines. It also tends to be very applied—
focusing on improving social conditions. Rather than trying to approach the topic in an
objective (scientific) manner, it starts from a set of values that emphasizes democracy and the
importance of public participation. Finally, community-development approaches focus on
deficiencies and create dependencies. Asset-based development stresses effectiveness and
empowers people.
Community Capital—the focus on assets can be conceptualized as different forms of
community capital. Investments in these resources can produce more benefits for the
community.
information and build power.
Definition of community—includes three elements: place, social institutions or organizations,
and social interaction on matters of common concern (such as education, housing, and
environment).
There are three perspectives on whether the concept of community still exists. Some argue
recognition of common interests. (2) Technical assistance focuses on the outcomes. The role of
the practitioner is to provide assistance and information. There are three different types of
technical assistance—continual local assistance, regional resource model, and the parachute
model (which focuses on temporary assistance by someone outside the region). (3) Conflict
approach focuses on community organizing. Although much of the focus is on conflict, there
Discussion Questions
Ch. 1
1. Define the boundaries of your community (use streets or natural barriers as the boundaries).
What factors influence how you define your community? How does this definition influence
your behavior, such as where you shop or interact with people?
2. What do you think are the key assets in your community? How could these assets be further
developed in order to improve the quality of life in your community?
3. How does mobility (both in terms of people and financial capital) influence our ability to
promote community development?
4. What have been some of the key impacts of globalization for American communities over the
past few decades? Do you think the benefits of globalization outweigh the costs? Why or why
