Can Civil Associations Be Schools Of Democracy? The Effects Of Some Organizational Characteristics
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21118/apgs.v6i1.4539Abstract
Abstract: The aim of this essay is to propose a theoretical reflection on how do the organizational characteristics of an association influence their ability to fulfill their role as civil and democratic schools. Associations are deemed important as they contribute to the democratic process, give voice to special interests, regulate behaviors, develop and disseminate innovations and create social and psychological rewards for their members. Understanding why members join, why they continue as members and how associations are structured and governed is crucial to understand the tensions, conflicts and dilemmas inherent in their role as civil institutions in society. Among the problems are the threat of oligarchization, the risk of promoting elitism and social exclusion and the loss of a social and public purpose.
Key-Words: Civil society, organizational democracy, associative governance, membership-based organization
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