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Abstract

▪ Abstract 

Is it possible for people to join their way to good citizenship? Contemporary thinking, both academic and popular, often leaves the impression that it is, but a careful investigation of the evidence raises serious doubts. In actuality, belonging to voluntary associations is a woefully inadequate foundation for good citizenship for three primary reasons: People join groups that are homogeneous, not heterogeneous; civic participation does not lead to, and may turn people away from, political participation; and not all groups promote democratic values. Good citizens need to learn that democracy is messy, inefficient, and conflict-ridden. Voluntary associations do not teach these lessons.

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/content/journals/10.1146/annurev.polisci.8.082103.104829
2005-06-15
2024-10-16
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/content/journals/10.1146/annurev.polisci.8.082103.104829
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  • Article Type: Review Article
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