This is a process definition that's about how a community learns. We are saying that the real value of a community network comes from the degree of autonomy or control it gives a community over what it learns about change and about adapting to new circumstances. TC is quite conscious of that distinction. In order to shape a national perspective on the role and purpose of community networking, it is essential to place the realization of community online as the central issue. TC is, therefore, more about community and community development than it is about community networking.
Electronic commerce can and does reinforce community and extend value to members.
Community and commerce are not at odds with each other. Commerce is an essential driving factor in the success of community. But communities occur because core values are shared, not sold. It is communities of special interest that aggregate the markets that make electronic commerce possible. Teach a man to fish, he eats for a lifetime.