ommunitarianism refers to a theoretical perspective that seeks to lessen the focus on individual rights and increase the focus on communal responsibilities. The definition of community varies and can refer to anything from the nuclear or extended family to the political state or nation. In this approach, ethical thought is grounded in communal values, established social standards and traditions, and considerations of the larger society. Communitarians emphasize the influence of society on individuals and contend that values are rooted in common history and tradition (Beauchamp and Childress 2001).

Tam (1998) suggests that communitarianism is based on three principles. The first requires that any claim of truth be validated through co-operative enquiry. Second, communities of co-operative inquiry, which represent the spectrum of citizens, should validate common values that become the basis of mutual responsibilities of all community members. And third, all citizens should have equal access and participation in the power structure of society.

A central premise of communitarianism is the recognition of society as a web of intersecting communities with differing moral values and standards (Johnson 2005). The key to resolving ethical questions and conflicts lies in respect for local values that demonstrate careful deliberation and local community acceptance. Consideration is also given to general alignment and accountability with the values of the larger society; however, the system of moral rules of a particular community is best understood in the context of that community's current and historical view of social welfare and related social interests, lending a certain level of cultural relativism to this perspective.