AP Comparative Government and Politics Flashcards: Civil Society
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 14 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is the key characteristic of civil society associations in relation to the state?
Civil society associations are autonomous from the state.
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What is the key characteristic of civil society associations in relation to the state?
Civil society associations are autonomous from the state.
What is a nongovernmental organization (NGO)?
An NGO is a type of voluntary association within civil society that operates autonomously from the state.
Are civil society organizations always political in nature?
No, civil society organizations are not necessarily political, but they can still act as agents of democratization.
If a professional association lobbies lawmakers for policy changes, which function of civil society is it performing?
It is performing the functions of lobbying the government and representing the interests of its members.
What are some examples of organizations within civil society?
Examples include local religious and neighborhood organizations, news media, business and professional associations, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).
Define civil society.
Civil society comprises a range of voluntary associations that are autonomous from the state.
Besides representing interests, what is another benefit civil society organizations provide directly to their members?
They provide members with organizational experience.
How do civil society organizations serve their constituents?
They represent the interests of their members and provide them with organizational experience.
Does the role of civil society vary among the AP Comparative Government course countries?
Yes, across the course countries, civil society organizations perform their roles to varying degrees.
How does a country's regime type relate to its civil society?
The strength and variety of civil society organizations differs depending on the regime type in which they operate.
Identify two methods governments can use to limit civil society organizations.
Governments can limit civil society organizations through registration and monitoring policies.
What role can a robust civil society play in a country's political development?
A robust civil society, even if not explicitly political, serves as an agent of democratization.
What broader issue is often highlighted when a government places restrictions on NGOs?
Restrictions on NGOs and civil society tend to highlight violations of civil liberties that are protected under foundational documents.
List two ways civil society organizations can hold the government accountable.
Civil society organizations can monitor and lobby the government, as well as expose governmental malfeasance.