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Formal Voluntary Organizations and Change over Time: A Study of American Fraternal Associations

• Schmidt, Alvin J
• Babchuk, Nicholas

Abstract

A large & increasing number of Americans belong to voluntary associations, of which such fraternal associations as Masons & the like are a major category. Such organizations first came into being in England in 1717, with the transformation of Freemasonry into a speculative organization mainly concerned with character rather than with work. Such groups have served the functions of social integration, social prestige, benevolency, & religion. Such organizations are now tending to decline. This may be due to such factors as urbanization, anonymity, secularization, & resistance to organizational change. W. H. Stoddard.

Journal

Journal of Voluntary Action Research

(Winter 1972)
vol1 no1 pages46-55

Categories

1. Membership Associations  
2. Voluntary and Member Associations  

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