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Civil Society in Modern Democracies

Definition, Impact on Democracy and Critical Assessment

Title: Civil Society in Modern Democracies

Essay , 2009 , 9 Pages , Grade: 9 out of 10 points

Autor:in: Philipp Alvares de Souza Soares (Author)

Politics - Political systems in general and in comparison
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Summary Excerpt Details

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.

Excerpt


Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

  • 1. Introduction
  • 2. Definition
  • 3. Civil Society and Democracy
  • 4. Critical Assessment

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This essay aims to define civil society and explore its role in modern democracies. It examines the positive influences attributed to civil society, while also offering a critical assessment. The essay concludes with a summary of its findings.

  • Definition and conceptualization of civil society
  • The relationship between civil society and democracy
  • The role of civil society in addressing societal problems
  • Critical assessment of civil society's impact
  • Civil society's contribution to democratic participation

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

  • Chapter 1: Introduction This chapter introduces the concept of civil society as a controversial yet frequently discussed topic in social sciences, particularly since the fall of socialist regimes in Eastern Europe. It outlines the essay's structure and objectives.
  • Chapter 2: Definition This chapter explores the difficulties in defining civil society due to its varied applications. It presents several definitions, highlighting the distinction between the state, private sector, and civil society as a "third sector" characterized by voluntary organizations and NGOs working for the common good.
  • Chapter 3: Civil Society and Democracy This chapter examines civil society's role as a "school of democracy," fostering civic engagement and participation. It discusses how civil society provides a voice for underrepresented groups, offers expert advice to governments, and addresses issues neglected by state bodies. The chapter also highlights the positive effects of civil society on democratic participation and social capital, referencing Putnam's work. It further explores civil society's role in mitigating the negative impacts of globalization and fostering democratic culture, particularly in regions experiencing democratic deficits.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

Civil society, democracy, civic engagement, NGOs, social capital, democratic participation, globalization, voluntary organizations, political participation, societal problems.

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Details

Title
Civil Society in Modern Democracies
Subtitle
Definition, Impact on Democracy and Critical Assessment
College
University of Amsterdam  (The Hague University, School for European Studies)
Course
Contemporary Political Issues
Grade
9 out of 10 points
Author
Philipp Alvares de Souza Soares (Author)
Publication Year
2009
Pages
9
Catalog Number
V122483
ISBN (eBook)
9783640278596
ISBN (Book)
9783640282722
Language
English
Tags
Civil Society Zivilgesellschaft Bürgergesellschaft Putnam Democracy Participation Engagement Politics
Product Safety
GRIN Publishing GmbH
Quote paper
Philipp Alvares de Souza Soares (Author), 2009, Civil Society in Modern Democracies, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/122483
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