Skip to content

Civil Society is a cluster of institutions and…

“Civil Society is a cluster of institutions and associations strong enough to prevent tyranny, but which are, none the less, entered and left freely, rather than imposed by birth or sustained by awesome ritual. You can join the Labour Party without slaughtering a sheep...” quote by Ernest Gellner
Download Open image
“Civil Society is a cluster of institutions and associations strong enough to prevent tyranny, but which are, none the less, entered and left freely, rather than imposed by birth or sustained by awesome ritual. You can join the Labour Party without slaughtering a sheep...”

Ernest Gellner

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A robust civil society, freely entered and exited, guards against tyranny; political affiliation should not demand extreme sacrifice.

In simple terms: Free civil institutions prevent tyranny; party joining is simple.

Key Takeaway

Support open, voluntary civic participation.

Themes

civil liberty political freedom democracy

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • voting
  • joining parties
  • community groups
  • activism

Key Concepts

political theory social contract

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a civil society truly resilient?
  • How can one balance activism with personal safety?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate institutional inertia.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ernest Gellner

Explore all 22 Ernest Gellner quotes

More Association quotes

Browse all 863 Association quotes