voluntary-associations
Groups formed by Americans across diverse interests, historically central to civic life and social capital.
2 chapters across 1 book
Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community (2000)Robert D. Putnam
Chapter 3 of Putnam's "Bowling Alone" examines the nature and evolution of American civic participation through voluntary associations. While the number of nonprofit organizations has dramatically increased since the 1960s, this growth is characterized by a proliferation of smaller, often non-member-based advocacy groups centered in Washington, D.C., rather than by a rise in grassroots, member-driven local chapters. The chapter distinguishes between traditional, community-based associations that foster social capital and newer, politically focused organizations that engage members primarily through financial contributions rather than face-to-face interaction.
Chapter 3 of "Bowling Alone" examines the trends and transformations in American civic participation, focusing on membership in voluntary associations and interest groups over the twentieth century. It highlights a significant decline in average membership sizes and participation rates since the 1960s, despite earlier periods of growth, and discusses the rise of national nonprofit organizations headquartered in Washington, D.C., often characterized by advocacy without broad membership bases. The chapter also explores the methodological challenges in measuring civic engagement and the implications of shifting patterns in associational life for American democracy.