Beyond Loneliness and Institutions: Communes for Extraordinary People

Experimental villages serve as unique communal spaces for individuals often labeled as deficient by societal standards. These villages foster a shared economy and a rich cultural life, emphasizing collective living without traditional structures like salaries or staff. Nils Christie, who spent two decades engaging with these communities, contrasts the extraordinary lives within them with those of ordinary society, revealing insights about both experiences. His exploration highlights the emotional and cultural shocks encountered in this dual existence, illuminating the benefits of alternative living arrangements.