Communal philosophy? A possible framework for academia-community interaction

Abstract

Interaction with local communities is commonly known as academia's "third mission," yet academia-community rifts are still common, running deeper in marginalized communities. A first step toward bridging the gap is clarification. We review core concepts (e.g., 'outreach,' 'accessibility,' 'engagement'), sort them into two model frameworks – "Ivory Tower" and "Reciprocal” or “Win-Win” – and describe their distinct structures. Both are helpful in relevant contexts. However, their default application hampers certain epistemic values, enacts unjust hierarchical boundaries, and indirectly ties diversity with personal alienation and ethnic divergence. Therefore, another model is suggested: “Communal Academia.” We unfold how this model foregrounds activism, heterogeneity, and pluralistic interaction. Imaginary and real-life examples demonstrate the practice-based advantages of this framework, and the philosophical relevance of a communal approach is reflected upon.