The Different Drum: Community Making and Peace

by M. Scott Peck

'The overall purpose of human communication is - or should be - reconciliation. It should ultimately serve to lower or remove the walls of misunderstanding which unduly separate us human beings, one from another...' Although we have developed the technology to make communication more efficent and to bring people closer together, we have failed to use it to build a true global community. Dr M. Scott Peck believes that if we are to prevent civilization destroying itself, we must urgently rebuild on all levels, local, national and international and that is the first step to spiritual survival. In this radical and challenging book, he describes how the communities work, how group action can be developed on the principles of tolerance and love, and how we can start to transform world society into a true community.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Philosophy, Self Help, Religion, Sociology

340 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1987

About the author

Morgan Scott Peck was an American psychiatrist and best-selling author who wrote the book The Road Less Traveled, published in 1978.

Reviews

[Melissa McClintock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this in my early twenties after the Road less travelled. It impacted my identity, because I wasn't in the "mainstream" and I was the black sheep of my family and as most 2o somethings checking things out. I thought "aha, I"m not the only one!" It was encouraging.

[Shari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful. Dr Peck is the man! This one really helps you get perspective on how the sense of community and overall mores have eroded since the age of industrialism and ultimately prosperity

[Breanna Peskleway · Rating 3 out of 5]

6.5/10

There are 3 types of community:

1. pseudo community - the basic assumption that the problem of individual differences should be avoided, people are overly polite, and focus on small talk

2. mob psychology - the basic assumption that all members of the group (not a community) must not have considerable differences, and anyone who thinks differently is treated as a pariah

3. true community - understanding we cannot heal or convert others, we can only offer a space free from judgement where people can heal or convert (if they choose) themselves. Members get along even with opposing world views and religions. This is what psychologists try to establish during treatment.

To become a true community every member must:

- understand there is no leader, we are all leaders
- be inclusive
- transcend individual differences for the good of the whole; to think and feel as a group
- become vulnerable, share with the group and empty yourself to create space for welcoming others' fears and frustrations.. give and ye shall receive
- show integrity: you can't go to church on Sunday then turn around and write anti-Christ advertisements at work during the week, your Sunday best, your work self, the person you show to your friends.. They are all the same person and we really thrive when we don't compartmentalize
- all decisions must reach consensus, no voting, no making decisions until 100% of members are on board even if that means putting a project off for a year to continue researching, everyone's opinion is valued the same

I liked the biblical references. I loved the proverbs, and the stories of how real individuals built up communities. This book has inspired me to find groups to get involved with, and to push myself to be more vulnerable. It's crazy how fleshed out my idea of community is now, it's not a word you can apply to just any group. This book was recommended by John Holt and I can see why thriving communities are important with regards to home education.

I was not a fan of the last few chapters regarding community in the arms race, and United States government. The author is clearly a Freemason. He is passionate and believes the arms race is a result of poor communication; in his opinion, a one world government is the answer. Transitioning to a single policing nation seems an impossible feat as no government wants to appear vulnerable to the others, or give up control, which is a necessary step in establishing community.

[Deacon Tom F. (Recovering from a big heart attack) · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books of all time.

I highly recommend

[Tony Travis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scott Peck’s The Different Drum is an insightful exploration into the complex nature of community and the essential human desire for deep connection. This book isn't just about group dynamics; it's about understanding the transformative power of authentic relationships, both personal and societal. With his psychological depth and spiritual wisdom, Peck brings a thoughtful approach to building meaningful communities, offering readers a profound framework for healing in an often fractured world.

The book shines in its ability to clearly define the stages of community—pseudo-community, chaos, emptiness, and true community. These stages create a narrative that is both emotionally and intellectually engaging, as Peck describes how relationships move from superficial harmony to true connection through vulnerability and openness. The world he paints is not perfect or easy, but his vision of what communities can become—if individuals are willing to do the hard work—is both inspiring and achievable.

Peck’s concept of “true community” is where the book takes its strongest stand. He argues that real community requires us to embrace differences and work through the chaos of conflict and misunderstanding. His perspective feels especially relevant today, where division and isolation are prevalent. The transformation he speaks of doesn’t come without discomfort, but it holds the promise of genuine healing for individuals and society as a whole. The communities he envisions are not about surface-level peace but about a deeper, messier process that leads to growth.

Yet, The Different Drum is not without its challenges. Some of Peck’s reflections on the human spirit and the need for emptiness may feel a bit abstract, especially when it comes to translating his ideas into real-world actions. The philosophical and spiritual undertones, while engaging, can at times feel lofty or idealistic. The book asks a lot of its readers, and while it provides a road map to building community, the path can feel difficult to follow without a clear, practical guide for application.

One of the most compelling elements of the book is its exploration of the emptiness stage, which Peck describes as a critical turning point in achieving true community. He doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable truth that, to build genuine connections, individuals must be willing to confront their own vulnerabilities and limitations. This phase of emptiness is what makes the journey worthwhile, even though it’s often the hardest part to endure.

The Different Drum is a well-crafted guide to understanding community on a deeper level, though its concepts can feel lofty at times. For those looking to explore the nature of human connection, it provides a rich, thought-provoking narrative that encourages readers to reflect on their own roles in creating and sustaining meaningful relationships. While not always easy to implement, the ideas presented in this book offer a powerful vision of what true community can look like. In the end you gain a new feeling for the word consensus.

[Jason Baskerville · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an extraordinary book! As I was reading, it occurred to me that I was finding out information and gathering tools about community that I had never been taught in church or Bible College. It was remarkable to read Dr. Peck's approach to community that is only achieved through emptiness, and how difficult this is for most people. I get that! Emptying ourselves of our prejudices, biases, our need to solve, fix, control and convert are all so much more difficult than putting down a connection to look for something easier elsewhere. The ability to recognize community by its ability to be silent together also spoke volumes to me as a Spiritual Director - silence can do so much heavy lifting in our relationships.
I would recommend this book for those who are wondering why they're not getting that deep sense of community from the church they attend and are really interested in what progressing toward community actually looks like. This will be a perspective that you likely haven't heard and, while the book is 40 years old, I found many of his observations about the church, culture and North America to still be on point. The book is well written, easy to follow and not overly scholarly. I admit that I'm a bit disappointed that he seems to be deliberately vague on his community building curriculum, but I can understand that a man has to make a buck! Keep pressing into discomfort, friends!

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scott Peck is very creative at writing memorable opening sentences in his books. "A Road Less Traveled" begins: "Life is difficult." The Different Drum begins: "Community is rare." He purposely does not define community, but devotes the majority of the book describing its characteristics and how to acquire it. His ideas are idealistic, and leave the reader to conclude that community is not only rare, but, based on his principles, impossible. His ideas of religion are thought-provoking, and he includes his hierachy of "spiritual maturity",in which he describes the most spiritually mature being those who are "mystics", and not afraid to question their faith. In other words, those who are dogmatic in their faith(or religion) are less spiritually mature. I'll be chewing on that one awhile.....

[Peter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Brilliant on community , white anted by Jesus glasses

Really really good ideas on the importance of community plus solid suggestions how to do same. Skip the religious blather and focus on human beings and thus is a stunningly excellent book

[Brooklyn Hart ❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful! Make every stranger a friend and you’ll never be lonely! Talk to everyone you meet. Headphones out, eyes up, smile open, you only live this life once!

[Doug · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was raining. I remember standing around smoking with Scottie under a porch at Emory. He was a great chain smoker, tall and thin, lovely sense of humor, and quite warm. Must have been circa 1984-85. I enjoyed his workshop - all on the topic of this book. Funny though, now, many years later, I don't remember much about the book. His first two, Road and People of the Lie (have never tired of telling the story of the boys and the Christmas gun), made a much deeper impression. Come to think of it - I put 1987 down as the reading date - but I must have read it earlier - unless, I'm only thinking I must have since I attended the conference.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

A different way of relating to the world around us. Another potentially life changing book from this wonderful philosopher psychologist, Scotty teaches us how to create a constructive community and points us to some places where we can go to follow these tenets. What a shame this man is dead - he was truly great. Should be compulsory reading for anyone who feels that our communities are not what they could be.

[Troyann · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an Idealistic way to look at the world.. I would elect this man to run our country. Educational and philispohical

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book changed the way I relate to people, especially in groups.

[Natasha Park · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wasn't sure what to expect. Loved his style of writing. Crazy that so much of this book can still be used today. We need community more now than ever I feel.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read! Just have a pen/pencil in hand to mark so many important and well-said ideas! I underlined and starred so much of this book. I love how Scott Peck addresses the stages of spiritual growth and how as adults we continue to mature and change. He says, "all change is a kind of death, and all growth requires that we go through depression".
I also loved how Peck talked about the importance of vulnerability necessary in community. He says, "In building community, some brave soul always has to start. There must, in truth, be initiatives. One by one people genuinely risk rejection...as they escalate the group into ever deeper levels of vulnerability and honesty".

[Andrew Westle · Rating 4 out of 5]

After doing a Community Building workshop it was suggested I read this book. I found the steps in Community fascinating and really illuminated some of the processes I have shared in facilitation. Peck had an earnestness that at times is so frustrating, but the content and processes are very digestible and have lots to say to anyone who works with groups or brings people together. Basically the core of my practice. In a world that feels increasingly fractured and unstable these processes and approaches are of increased importance.

[Christie Bogle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I directly quote from this book in the process of writing my first year of research designing an ESL class in a community center. I refer to it again in my MA "file paper" (the only thing they offered that approached a thesis at the time.)

I found it one of the most useful pieces of writing for defining and giving me a lexicon for community building and classroom communities.

[M · Rating 4 out of 5]

excellent book about that oft-overused word, "community". the section on stages of spiritual development should be mandatory reading for anyone who does anything related to faith or spiritual life. the last few chapters felt like a different book though. i know he'd say they're all related but they didn't hang together well for me.

[Lisa Kentgen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful sections on group process as community. Highly recommend.

He used words that needed explanation, like 'evil'. He had apparently defined in a past book but there is a danger to using in reference to human behavior without being clearer.

I read this book for research on community-building and, for those purposes, this is a must-read classic.

[Dayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I started with "The Road Less Traveled." And I got a lot of good out of the book. Looking at life not taking roads that everyone else takes, but being open to new risks and even possible failures.

[Marta Mellinger · Rating 4 out of 5]

model i've used for years and years about life...

[Jillian · Rating 2 out of 5]

This would be a good text book. the first part was interesting but not what I thought it was going to be.

[Charles Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read.

[Nathan Albright · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an example of a work that began very well and ended with somewhat of a thud.  And why was that the case?  Most of this book is spent, rather sensibly, dealing with issues of peacemaking and the building of communities on an interpersonal level, looking at families, congregations, and various other groups.  It is at the end of the book when the author looks at politics on the national and then the international scale where this book fails, and it fails specifically for a few reasons that are worth discussing.  For one, the methods of dealing with "evil" become more problematic with the author's pacifism the higher up you go.  For another, the author seems afflicted with that postmillennial optimism that believes that it is the achievement of peace and unity on earth that will inaugurate the millennial kingdom, rather than a direct and forceful intrusion by Jesus Christ on a rebellious world, and those who are not optimistic about the possibility of genuine peace and moral progress for humanity as a whole are not likely to view the author's suggestions as realistic.  That the author, rather typically, labels this pessimism as simply resulting from fear is a notable blind spot.

This book is divided into three parts.  Beginning with a prologue and introduction, and going on for a bit more than 300 pages, this marks the effort of Peck to put his thoughts about community as a method for others to follow.  The first part of the book, and best part, examines the foundation of his thoughts about community-building (I), with chapters on how he stumbled into community in his own life (1), examines the fallacy of rugged individualism (2), looks at the true meaning of community (3), discusses how communities form either by accident or design in times of crisis (4), and looks at the stages of community building (5), their further dynamics (6), and maintenance (7).  The second part of the book, which is also very good, examines the bridge between people and communities (II), with chapters on human nature (8), patterns of transformation (9), emptiness (10), vulnerability (11), and the issue of integration and integrity (12).  It is at this point where the author moves into much more dangerous territory in looking at community as the solution to the world's problems (III), with chapters on communication (13), the arms race (14), the Christian Church in the United States (15), the American government (16), and empowerment (17), after which there is an altar call of sorts for the author's perspective and a look at what people are to do now.

The author's treatment of community is almost evangelical in fervor, but I think the author underestimates the difficulties of the community he seeks.  There are definitely some tensions that the author is able to recognize, such as the way in which it is hard for people to feel intimate unless there is a safe space where people can be themselves and let their guard down.  And if that is true of individuals meeting in a basement or forming a group of like-minded people, that is certainly even more true when we get to congregations and larger institutions where vulnerability can be very hazardous and where issues of safety and trust are all the more important.  That said, the author seems to be writing to people who are already interested in a certain degree of broadmindedness, intimacy, and honesty about one's weaknesses and shortcomings and struggles.  After all, the reader has already engaged with this book and (more than likely) others by this oversharing and vulnerable and idealistic writer.  Yet the author's experience does not really allow him to understand just how dark and unsafe much of the world is the majority of people within it, and so he tends to think that the problems of trust that make peace so difficult will be easily solved through patient listening.  But had the author not underestimated the amount of fear and evil that exist in this world, it is unlikely that he would have written as he did.

[Taryn Sawyer · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is beneficial for anyone who wishes to facilitate group process or in the very least, small groups of community (gatherings, AA meetings, etc). Part I, while holding a strong religious bent, serves this purpose well and I see why it was assigned reading for my graduate level courses. Part II, however, is a long-winded sermon where Peck assumes that his god is the only one and it oversees all the other religions as well. He posits that all of us, even the atheists, just have trouble with his god, and then veers off the track further by discussing his opinions on foreign policy, his opinion on church and state (hint: its enraging), the arms race, and further inserting his god into greek mythology where it doesn't belong.

I don't often rip into authors like this, but Peck would be better served saving his sermons for churches where it belongs, rather than using his psychiatric career as a soap box for his spiritual and political beliefs. This book is rife with contradiction and contrivances, and anyone familiar with Peck's other work, 'People of the Lie,' will recognize his fervent use of the word "evil" to describe that which he either lacks the capacity to understand or empathize with (which, as a psychiatrist, he's rather duty-bound to do?).

Furthermore his ideas on the stages of spiritual growth seem in tandem to Robert Kegan's stages of social development, with Peck's final stages (III and IV) harkening to Kegan's stage 4, the self-authoring mind, in a confusingly compartmentalized yet simultaneous fashion. What separates Peck's stages III and IV? Indeed, atheists versus devout christian mystics, the former of which Peck claims are "cowed" by the latter christians. In contrast, Kegan's theory is far more eloquent and advanced, making this section of Peck's work seem puerile and polarized in comparison.

In summary, part I of this book is the real worth of its page weight.

[Vojtěch Tatra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I perceive "real" spirituality in Christianity through Scots eyes which I probably didn't see in any other author. Even it's actually about any spirituality, it's through the eyes of Christian and its rightfully not denied. There is great knowledge of people from Scots lifelong psychotherapy practice well set in this book too. In the times when Russia attacked Ukraine and uses its typical propaganda to dilute truth and instigate helplessness in people the parts about arms race are very striking again.
Nearing the end of the book Scott seems to bring out, in my view, kind of unscientific speculation a projection of his views on cummunity (not necessary religious phenomenon but religionised by Scott) onto the Christianity. I am not saying it's not that way, but Ive got a feeling, that it's somehow biased. The word evil is also used in a vague manner for me. The latter parts of the book looks a bit like motivational cermon or political speech. I probably don't like that some statements are presented like facts, I think it should be more emphasized that most of it are just authors views. And the part with exorcism is hardly speculative, quite unscientific constructs are built there. The identification of community with Christianity is a bit like that too, but still kind of sensible for me.

[Tarek Omran · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting idea of how building a community is not just about all of us gathering around the bonefire with a polite smile on our face. That could be called, temporarily hosting guests over and not a community. It was surprising to hear that Scott's experience with building a community involved starting off with the phase of "polite smiles" (pseudo-community) and ended up in a different phase of having a community showing their true colours (a real community). It inevitably comes with a sizeable chunk of conflict (chaos), because we are often trying to convert one another to our own ideologies and beliefs. However, by sticking with the process, the community members and the discomfort of emptiness...something real and true is nurtured. It is through emptiness and surrender that we can learn to cultivate acceptance of ourselves, our differences & one another. That's when a community is formed.

[Ryan Barretto · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book will be extremely helpful for those keen on building community. It highlights the importance to accepting differences and people from diverse backgrounds, acknowledging struggles and building relationships with people.

I think this book must be read by leaders, trainers and facilitators. This will help leaders in particular, create rules of culture and engagement.

The last few chapters covered the situation of the USA and the Christian church there in the 80s, so from today's perspective, things there don't seem to have improved, but it provides a good window to understand how things were back then.

The author doesn't pull any punches in describing the challenges of building community and the realities of the USA. I believe this is what makes the book shine.

[Carol Palmer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sounds like such a simple thing -- just get people to live in community in peace. Yeah, right. Peck understands the difficulties of that challenge, yet he seems to have found a way to achieve positive results. However, I'm not sure it's as easy as just reading his book and following a recipe. You have to be a very skilled person, with a real knack for working with people and knowing the right thing to say (or not say) at the right time. Developing those kinds of skills don't just happen overnight from reading a book. Having said that, I think the book is a wonderful start and is certainly a good guide through the process. It's worth a read if you are in the position of trying to unify a group of people into a valid community.

[Laya · Rating 3 out of 5]

It had some valuable insights. Near the end, it got political. I read it for the sake of finishing the book, but I wasn'ta huge fan. He claims it isn't political, but it seemed political to me. He comes to a conclusion based on his principles and virtues, but they were painted as truth and not opinions. I think family/friend relationships and relationships between entire countries are a bit different in such a way that the methods used to facilitate community making wouldn't function the same when extrapolated.

The other 2/3rds of the book were great, though. I learned a lot and I would read the book again.