Editorial

Abstract

Volume 13 titled ‘Exploring Human Well-Being and Community Dynamics’ of the peer-reviewed journal plaNext–Next Generation Planning is here. Partially derived from the 16th AESOP Young Academics Conference ‘In Search of Well-Being in Liminality: No Longer-Not Yet’ that took place in Istanbul between April 5-8, 2022, it includes one research paper previously published online. We are delighted to present this latest volume, which draws together a diverse collection of research papers delving into the complex dynamics of human interaction with the living environment, social participation and community development. While originating from different geographic and disciplinary backgrounds, the four papers featured in this volume share a common theme: the complex interplay between individuals, communities, and the places they inhabit. The theme of ‘Exploring Human Well-Being and Community Dynamics’ encapsulates a rich tapestry of interdisciplinary research examining the diverse connections forged among inhabitants, societies, and their spaces. Grounded on a multidimensional understanding of well-being, this theme integrates insights from sociology, urban planning, economics and related disciplines to unravel the factors influencing human well-being within communal settings. Research in sociology has long emphasized the significance of social structures and community ties in shaping individual well-being. Contemporary scholars have expanded upon this perspective, incorporating concepts such as social capital (Woo et al, 2023; Sanchez-Garcia et al, 2023; Putnam, 2000) and community engagement (Bernstein and Isaac, 2023; Kawachi & Berkman, 2001) to explore the dynamics of collective well-being. The idea that communities play a vital role in shaping the health, prosperity and happiness of their members forms a foundational aspect of this research topic.