CV wrote in message ...

But OK then, besides smaller groups like kibbutzes or the Amish you
mention (must confess I have no idea what they are), ant colonies
and the like :0),

The Amish are a religious group, pretty much rejecting modern
conveniences, and more or less being what most people would like to
say they are, a community. They are also one of the last places on
earth where you can go and buy furniture that is made tastefully, and
with quality materials, knowing that the hand fit joints aren't going
to loosen up in a year. (And contrary to Tadysch adds, if you want
the good stuff, you'll go to the craftsman himself, not an outlet that
sells mass produced "almost good" furniture.) At the first glance,
they appear to be a gentle people, but many of their ways are hard and
cold, and you won't ever come out on top dealing with them, even
maybe, but they're not fools in their business affairs. What stands
them apart from most places, they really do care about their
communities and their people. Not just lip service like every other
"community."