Synopses & Reviews
To what extent are the ideas and practice of community development across Europe similar? Community Development and Civil Society explores this question with special reference to the UK and Hungary and shows how community development connects powerfully with civil society, a concept that today has global significance.Paul Henderson and Ilona Vercseg argue that community development is both a profession and a social movement and is relevant to a wide range of issues.They interweave case studies with discussion of principles and theory.The book's critical and accessible approach will appeal especially to students and practitioners.
Review
The authors bring a wealth of insight and experience to this analytical and practical exploration. Practicalities of participation, localisation and regional and global challenges provide a context for a deft invitation for community development to renew its vision. Alan Barr, Senior Research Fellow (University of Strathclyde), Scottish Community Development Centre, Glasgow
Review
An important resource for those concerned with community development and with strengthening civil societies' independent roles, across Europe, more generally - with detailed case study materials from Britain and Hungary, more particularly. It will be essential reading for policy makers and a wide range of professionals. Marjorie Mayo, Goldsmiths College, University of London
Synopsis
The concept of civil society is recognized as being of central importance in the study of political systems, regeneration, and communities. To what extent across Europe are the ideas and practice of community development similar? Community Development and Civil Society explores this question with special reference to the UK and Hungary and shows how community development connects powerfully with civil society, a concept that today has global significance. Written by experts who have many years of experience in community development research, the book contributes to the updating of how 'community' is defined, and it addresses key questions about democratic values in the context of communities.
Synopsis
Set within the context of Europe, this book demonstrates the contribution that community development can make to strengthening civil society. The book interweaves case studies with discussion of community development principles and theory to provide a critical and accessible approach.
About the Author
Paul Henderson is honorary professor of earth sciences at University College London and former director of science at the Natural History Museum in London. His most recent book is The Cambridge Handbook of Earth Science Data.
Table of Contents
Foreword ~ Attila Gergely
Introduction
Civil society
Community development
Socialisation
Economic wealth
Social participation
Social control
Mutual support and solidarity
Potential of community development
Learning and support
Conclusions