Civil Society

By Michael Edwards

Book Overview

Now in its fourth edition, Civil Society has become a major work of reference for those who seek to understand the role of voluntary citizen action in a troubled world.

Recent economic and political developments do not bode well for the theory and practice of civil society: communities are increasingly divided; inequality is on the rise; authoritarians and populists have gained a foothold even in advanced democracies; restrictions on freedom of speech and association are increasingly common and recent scandals have even reduced trust in charities. Worryingly, public spheres seem incapable of addressing these concerns. Yet, as Michael Edwards makes clear, ideas about the civil sphere can shed much light on what is happening, why, and how we might respond to polarization, privatization, and authoritarians of various stripes.

Fully updated to take account of recent work on digital culture, democracy, and philanthropy, Civil Society will be required reading for anyone who is interested in creating a better world through voluntary citizen action.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 150953735X
• ISBN13: 9781509537358
• Release Date: February 2020
• Publisher: Polity Press
• Length: 200 Pages
• Weight: 0.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.4" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

Great transaction!

Very fast delivery. The quality of the book is great. Thanks a lot!

"Readable, Challenging and Sophisticated"

"This is a fine book. At once readable and sophisticated, it is a challenging interpretation of the theoretical and practical significance of civil society as a concept and as a basis for action and hope about the future. Edwards writes with verve and lucidity, and draws upon his wide knowledge to reinforce his general points with an astonishing range of specific examples. It is, in my view, the best short treatment of the subject, and bound to be widely read and discussed."Professor Richard Falk, Princeton University

'Challenging, Readable and Sophisticated'

'This is a fine book. At once readable and sophisticated, it is a challenging interpretation of the theoretical and practical significance of civil society as a concept and as a basis for action and hope about the future. Edwards writes with verve and lucidity, and draws upon his wide knowledge to reinforce his general points with an astonishing range of specific examples. It is, in my view, the best short treatment of the subject, and bound to be widely read and discussed.' Professor Richard Falk, Princeton University