ABSTRACT
In the field of political science different perspectives for the analysis of political phenomena have been in vogue at different times. The traditional approach focused on the political structures that served as a framework for the political game and political exchange. Social context, national development, history, and politics and government profoundly influence the institutional landscape. Even though many of America's Founding Fathers were skeptical of voluntary associations, the third sector has been important to the nation's development. This chapter focuses on one of the wheels, the third one, the nonprofit sector. It examines an element of its governing structure, boards of directors, and, more specifically, their newest constituency, that of the public members, the name given to those citizens participating in governance as representatives of the public at large. The social instruments utilized by the public, private, and independent sectors differ as well.
