On The Commons

Aaron Hanauer and Colleen Ayers explain that the "rural cemeteries", a form that began in the early 19th century, used to be a popular place for family outings. With land in cities at a premium, could they be so again?

That was David Motzenbecker's thought as he began a public meeting of the Minneapolis Planning Department, which inspired him to re-think how the city engages the public.

Jay Walljasper discusses the role of public spaces in recent protests and revolutions from Madison, Wisconsin to Cairo, Egypt.

On the Commons criticizes the policy of 'enclosure' that has allowed "the systemic failures of the regulatory system and its political sponsors, Congress and the President," to go unnoticed.

Landowners in Gunnison, Colorado are claiming that rafters passing through on the banks of the Gunnison River are trespassing. Do property rights extend into the water?

A new book argues that yes, the priorities of private property often trump those of democracy, community, free expression and life outside of the marketplace.

A new book reveals that our extended network of acquaintances is more important to us than we might think.

That's the decision cities face, says columnist John Gurda, and his hope is that Americans will reinvest in the common good through effective taxation.

The Transition Town movement has spread to 150 towns in 14 countries. David Bollier of On The Commons takes a look at how these towns are making the shift towards locally-produced food and reduction in energy use.

An obscure new rule pushed through the Federal Highway Administration requires public toll roads to collect 'fair market value' from drivers, rather than to serve the public interest.

David Bollier argues that large institutions and businesses may have reached their peak, and we're headed towards a 'peer production' economy.

David Bollier debunks the idea that the magic of 'private property' is saving fisheries from being overfished.

Across the country, the billboard industry is fighting to prohibit tree planting on public spaces that might block their billboards.

Jay Walljasper reflects on the historical meaning of American independence, and how today's meaning is leading people away from working towards the common good.