Civil Society

The concept of civil society (and its reality) can only be proposed and understood within the framework of a specific intellectual system and historical context because it constitutes part of a broader whole, which is modernity. Although the term ‘civil society,’ like many other concepts such as freedom and democracy, was raised in the past, especially in ancient Greece, it is important to note that these terms acquire different and sometimes contradictory meanings and connotations in modern thought. Therefore, juxtaposing different meanings solely based on verbal similarity can be very misleading. Each concept must be analyzed within the framework of the system to which it belongs, avoiding abstract formulations, eclecticism, and mixing incompatible components. Civil society, as we discuss it today and its effects and consequences, is clearly a concept belonging to modern thought. Hence, without presenting and understanding the premises of modern thought and its logical requirements, it is not possible to scientifically discuss civil society.