JUNIOR CLUSTER DESCRIPTION (Community Studies)
This cluster explores the nature of the communities we live in, whether defined spatially (such as a neighborhood) or as a set of ties based on sharing a common interest. Building community has become a central debate in a number of social sciences, including sociology, political science, economics, and psychology. In a culture emphasizing individualism and individual rights, how can needs for community and responsibility to others be balanced? Thus, in this cluster, students have the opportunity to gain practical as well as theoretical experience with building communities.