a set of pages exploring civic participation, the development of community and association, and the activities of informal educators and animateurs
'The
strength of free peoples resides in the local community. Local institutions are
to liberty what primary schools are to science; they put it within the people's
reach; they teach people to appreciate its peaceful enjoyment and accustom them
to make use of it. Without local institutions a nation may give itself a free
government; but it has not got the spirit of liberty' (Alexis de Tocqueville
1835).
association and la vie associative. This piece explores the process of joining together in companionship or to undertake some task - and the educative power of playing one's part in a group or association.
civic community. What are the essential conditions of successful democracies? What is the significance of civic community for the development of good institutions? We explore Robert D. Putnam’s path-breaking analysis of civil traditions in Italy.
civil society. Michael Edwards explores the practical and theoretical significance of civil society - and suggests some ways forward.
social capital. The notion of social capital is a useful way of entering into debates about civil society – and it is central to the arguments of Robert Putnam and others who want to ‘reclaim public life’. We examine it's nature - and some of the issues surrounding its use. See also: robert. d. putnam.
community associations and centres
settlements and social action centres. See also: poverty and opportunity - 100 years of Birmingham Settlement; residential settlements and social change; and settlements and adult education.
summer camps and camp counselors
The Barnetts and Toynbee Hall (to be extended)
Mary Parker Follett (in preparation)
Try thinkers for other key theorists.
citizenship, youth work and democratic renewal
community development and organization
social capital and lifelong learning
