Singapore is emblematic of a globally-savvy, well plugged-in society that is highly
adept at appropriating and advocating the latest management and information
buzzwords. The concept and language of civic-cum-civil society is no exception.
Like most other social, cultural and political theories, however, each individual
application of the concept of civil society is highly variegated, and as such, tends
to exhibit its own peculiarities. However, given its unique ability to encompass
and address a whole range of problems—including, inter alia, political participation and active citizenry, ownership, social mores, values and civility—the concept
and ideology of both civic and civil society will continue to be mobilised and
promoted in Singapore, albeit under the terms and conditions of the existing
political establishment.