Civil Society and the Family
By Esther Muddiman, Sally Power and Chris Taylor
ISBN
978-1447355533Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Policy PressISBN
978-1447355526Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Policy PressISBN
978-1447355557Imprint
Policy PressISBN
978-1447355557Imprint
Policy Press
Civil Society and the Family
In the media
'Civil Society and the Family' in WISERD blog
The relationship between the family and civil society has always been complex, with the family often regarded as separate from, or even oppositional to, civil society.
Taking a fresh empirical approach, Muddiman, Power and Taylor reveal how such separation underestimates the important role the family plays in civil society. Considering the impact of family events, dinner table debates, intergenerational transmission of virtues and the role of the mother, this enlightening book draws on survey data from 1000 young people, a sample of their parents and grandparents, and extended family interviews, to uncover how civil engagement, activism and political participation are inherited and fostered within the home.
"With its innovative approach, rich findings, and careful interpretations, this book makes a fresh and valuable contribution to our understanding of how family life connects to civil society." Voluntas
"Those interested in its interface with civil society, will find an enlightening resource in this book." INTAMS
"A timely exploration of how families connect to civic society. Rich in theoretical insight and empirical detail, it guides the reader to a deeper understanding of issues central to everyday life." Hilary Graham, University of York
"A ground-breaking piece of sociological research which makes a notable contribution to the growing debate about the political role of the family. Outstanding." Paul Ginsborg, University of Florence
“A timely and unique contribution, this book links family life with fundamental national and global concerns about civic beliefs and engagement.” Julia Brannen, UCL Institute of Education
Esther Muddiman is a postdoctoral researcher at WISERD. Her interests span sociology and education, with a particular focus on civic responsibility, intergenerational relationships and youth engagement.
Sally Power is a professor in the School of Social Sciences at Cardiff University and Director of WISERD. Her research interests focus on the relationship between education, civil society and inequality.
Chris Taylor is Academic Director of the Cardiff University Social Science Research Park. His interests include the geography of education, education policy, and the relationship between education and the lifecourse.
Starting points
The paradoxical positioning of the family and civil society
The challenges of researching the ‘private sphere’ of the family
The uncertain business of raising citizens
Keeping the faith? Secularisation, the family and civic engagement
Mothers, grandmothers and civic engagement
Family arguments: finding one’s voice
Politicising family food practices
The upward transmission of civic ‘virtues’
Reframing civil society and the family
