The concept of civil society is a controversial and recently often discussed topic in the social sciences. Especially since the end of the socialist regimes in Eastern Europe, in which civil society organizations played an important role, it has been considered as a possible solution for many problems of modern societies and was in the focus of public discussion.
This essay tries to find a definition for civil society in its first part and continues by talking about the proclaimed role of it in modern democracies. Several theoretical approaches will be outlined. The already mentioned positive influences will be discussed as well as critically assessed. Afterwards the essay ends with a final conclusion.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Definition
3. Civil Society and Democracy
4. Critical Assessment
5. Conclusion
Objectives and Research Themes
This essay explores the complex role of civil society within modern democratic systems, aiming to define the concept while examining its potential to strengthen democratic engagement, bridge social gaps, and act as a counterbalance to state power and globalization.
- The conceptual definition and evolution of civil society.
- The function of civil society as a "school of democracy" and its role in civic participation.
- The impact of civil society on social capital and political identification.
- A critical evaluation of the reliance on the "third sector" to solve structural state problems.
Excerpt from the Book
3. Civil Society and Democracy
In addition to this aspect civil society can be seen as a “school of democracy” where people can learn how to act as civilians and feel what democracy actually means. This concept derives from Alexis de Tocqueville who saw civil society as an essential part of a democracy that promotes its concepts and values and actively integrates people into the participation process. By taking part in civic engagement people actually learn that they can have an influence and can make a difference by working together (Merkel/Laut, 1998, p. 5).
Civil society can give a voice to people or social groups that don´t feel represented well in democracy or shed light on issues that the state bodies don´t seem to pay attention to. Some civil society organizations have expert knowledge in many areas of concern and may serve the government as a good counselor. Furthermore they can even try to directly solve problems that the government doesn´t seem to notice. Thereby civil society helps to improve some of the weaknesses of democracy itself and lower dissatisfaction.
Participating in the civil society can be a good experience for every citizen that also helps to bind him to the democratic system. It is a possibility to actively take part in different areas of democratic states and the community. This can help citizens to have a positive identification with their political system.
Putnam (1995) also highlights the positive effects of civil society on democracy. He argues that the growing political dissatisfaction and decreasing political participation in the United States are connected to the decline of civic engagement. Following de Tocqueville´s argument he considers civil society as essential for a successful and well organized society which citizens are more likely to approve (pp. 66-67). He also introduces the concept of social capital that can be summarized as the quantity and quality of the social contacts as person has to add another dimension to this problem. According to his view social capital is eroding as well which also has a negative influence on civic trust and engagement. Summarized he states that this development should be stopped in order to foster or even rescue democracy (Putnam, 1995, p. 76-77).
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: The introduction outlines the controversy surrounding the concept of civil society and sets the scope for examining its role in modern democracies.
2. Definition: This chapter discusses the challenges of defining civil society and presents a four-sector model that distinguishes it from the state, market, and family.
3. Civil Society and Democracy: This chapter analyzes how civil society fosters democratic participation and provides a framework for addressing social issues and globalization.
4. Critical Assessment: This section provides a balanced view, questioning whether the state relies too heavily on the third sector to outsource social responsibilities.
5. Conclusion: The conclusion emphasizes the necessity of a balanced relationship between the state and civil society for the stability of modern democracies.
Keywords
Civil society, Democracy, Third sector, Civic engagement, Social capital, Globalization, Political participation, NGOs, Democratic deficit, Public sphere, Welfare, Institutional forms, Collective action, State responsibility, Social identification
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this paper?
The paper examines the conceptual definition of civil society and its multifaceted role as a catalyst for participation and problem-solving in modern democratic states.
What does "civil society" encompass according to the author?
It is described as the arena of uncoerced collective action that exists between the state, the market, and the family, operating in the interest of the common good.
What is the central research objective?
The goal is to determine if civil society acts as a beneficial pillar for strengthening democracy or if its promotion is a strategy for the state to shirk its social obligations.
Which theoretical perspective is central to the discussion on democracy?
The essay leans heavily on the concepts of Alexis de Tocqueville, characterizing civil society as a "school of democracy" that promotes civic values and participation.
What is the key methodology used in the text?
The author uses a literature-based analysis, synthesizing academic definitions and contemporary political theories from scholars like Putnam, Beck, and Grande.
What are the main thematic areas covered?
The themes include the definition of the third sector, the "school of democracy" concept, the impact of globalization, and a critical look at the outsourcing of state social services.
How does the author view the "outsourcing" of social problems to civil society?
The author is skeptical, noting that while civil society can address needs better than the state in some cases, it should not be used as an excuse for the state to abandon its own responsibilities toward disadvantaged groups.
What role does social capital play in the author's argument?
Referencing Robert Putnam, the author explains that social capital is vital for civic trust, and its erosion threatens the stability and health of democratic systems.
- Quote paper
- Philipp Alvares de Souza Soares (Author), 2009, Civil Society in Modern Democracies, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/122483
