[random_upvoter]

Sure such systems tend to end up getting corrupt if they amass too much power. That was not my point. I guess my point was that given the bleak state of today's social landscape, I wonder if there's opportunity for some kind of renaissance of communal living, in one form or another. And maybe these monasteries didn't only exist because of fervent religiosity but also as a practical way for single men and women to have a better life.

[hutzlibu]

"I wonder if there's opportunity for some kind of renaissance of communal living, in one form or another."

Sure and it is happening since a while, take a look here for example:

https://www.ic.org/

So far most of the projects are rather in dreamland than in reality, but some are well established and working.

edit: you will also find actual monasterys there if that is your thing

[apomekhanes]

Very interesting - hadn't come across this before, thanks!