A group of individuals bound together by a shared agreement or promise, often religious in nature, striving to live according to its terms, forms a distinct social entity. This entity is characterized by mutual obligations, shared values, and a commitment to supporting one another in adhering to the established principles. For example, early Puritan settlements in North America exemplified this concept, where individuals pledged to uphold specific religious and moral standards within their towns.
The importance of such a community lies in its ability to foster social cohesion, provide a framework for ethical conduct, and offer a sense of belonging to its members. Historically, these communities have served as vital building blocks of larger societies, contributing to the development of legal and moral systems. The collective commitment to shared principles provides stability and predictability, promoting cooperation and mutual aid.