Africana Periodical Literature 
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 Periodical article |
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| Title: | Democratic Societies? Voluntary Association and Democratic Culture in a South African Township |
| Author: | White, Caroline |
| Year: | 1998 |
| Periodical: | Transformation: Critical Perspectives on Southern Africa |
| Issue: | 36 |
| Pages: | 1-36 |
| Language: | English |
| Geographic term: | South Africa |
| Subjects: | associations democracy townships Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups) Urbanization and Migration Politics and Government |
| External link: | https://d.lib.msu.edu/tran/341/OBJ/download |
| Abstract: | The aim of this article is to supply empirical data which is at present lacking in the debate about whether a democratic culture exists in South Africa that is strong enough to block politicians who are tempted to become patrons rather than representatives. It argues that a vibrant and democratic associational life equips citizens to reject patron-clientelism. The article first outlines typical forms of association in South African townships: civic organizations (civics), burial societies, stokvels (rotating credit associations), church-based associations, sports clubs, aerobic clubs, and voluntary associations. Then it focuses on the texture of associational life in three different types of township dwelling pattern in Soweto: Mzimhlope, a long-established formal township of small houses; the neighbouring Meadowlands hostel, originally built for occupation by single male migrant labourers; and Powa Park, a recently legalized 'squatter' settlement. The conclusion is that membership of associations or at least participation in civic-minded activity does provide a brake on clientelism, a greater capacity to hold leaders or office bearers accountable, and therefore, a foundation for a democratic culture. Bibliogr., notes. |
