Figure 1. Individual

Figure 2. Community  

Government is the third component of civil society. It is an element often left out in definitions of civil society that only focus on the space that exists between the individual and government. It is my view that any definition of civil society in the United States has to include the essential participation of citizens in democratic government and the essential role of government in providing and protecting citizen participation in the first place (see Figure 3). The business sector is another undervalued partner in civil society. Many businesses are not renowned for civility and social conscience, but those that accept and fulfill social responsibility contribute significantly to the quality of community and civil society. I often have seen what a positive role corporations and their leaders play in bettering their surroundings. A large proportion of voluntary organizations and their fundraising campaigns are led by businessmen and women. Companies, unions, and media contribute greatly to the well-being of institutions and associations, and a company that is a good corporate citizen is concerned about its people and community (see Figure 4).

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