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Civil society from a historical perspective

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  • KOCKA, JU¨RGEN

Abstract

In many languages, the concept of ‘Civil society’ has had an astonishing career over the last 10 to 15 years, in disciplines such as history and sociology as well as with the public at large. This article presents a short history of the concept, offers a definition and explores the reasons for its popularity by identifying its conceptual ‘opponents’, which have changed over time. It discusses the changing relations between civil society, the market economy, government and the private sphere. It deals with the affinity between civil society and the middle classes in some areas and periods. It finally explores the trends and limits of the emergence of a transnational civil society in Europe. It is an overview that deals with the present problems from a historical perspective.

Suggested Citation

  • Kocka, Ju¨Rgen, 2004. "Civil society from a historical perspective," European Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 12(1), pages 65-79, February.
  • Handle: RePEc:cup:eurrev:v:12:y:2004:i:01:p:65-79_00
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    1. repec:hum:wpaper:sfb649dp2013-035 is not listed on IDEAS
    2. Lengwiler, Martin, 2004. "Privacy, justice and equality: The history of privacy legislation and its significance for civil society," Discussion Papers, Working Group Civil Society: Historical and Comparative Perspectives SP IV 2004-503, WZB Berlin Social Science Center.
    3. Kehl, Konstantin & Stahlschmidt, Stephan, 2013. "A new perspective on the economic valuation of informal care: The well-being approach revisited," SFB 649 Discussion Papers 2013-035, Humboldt University Berlin, Collaborative Research Center 649: Economic Risk.

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