Civil Society
• Civil society was first created in the late 18th century to contrast the democratic institutions of the West with the despotisms(≈ dictatorship) of the East.
• Today, it means non-governmental institutions that fill the space between the family and the state: E.g. Churches, trade unions, voluntary associations, and sporting clubs.
• An active civil society is important to bring individuals outside of their family bonds under non-commercial relationships.
• It also acts as a counter to the power of the state.