Civil Society

Civil Society has become a standard work of reference for those who
seek to understand the role of voluntary citizen action. Recent
global unrest has shown the importance of social movements and
street protests in world politics. However, as this lucid book
shows, the power that people have to shape their societies is
usually channeled through day-to-day participation in voluntary
associations and communities: expressions of ?normal?
civic life beyond the headlines. This is the underlying story of
civil society. This new edition explores issues that have developed
rapidly in recent years, including the overlaps between civil
society and the market in the form of social enterprises and
?venture philanthropy,? and the increasing role of
social media and information and communication technologies in
civic interaction. Different varieties of civil society in the
Middle East, Africa and elsewhere are investigated in more detail,
and case studies, data, and references have been updated
throughout. Colleges, foundations and NGOs, policy-makers,
journalists and commissions of inquiry D all have used
Edwards?s book to understand and strengthen the vital role
that civil society can play in deepening democracy, re-building
community, and addressing inequality and injustice. This new
edition will be required reading for anyone who is interested in
creating a better world through voluntary citizen action.