ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the theoretical frameworks within which data on voluntary associations can be understood, and second, the practicalities of collecting such data. It explains that data on voluntary association membership has no significance in itself, and that according to the theoretical perspective adopted different types of data about voluntary associations and the nature of participation need to be collected. The central issue within the pluralist perspective is the extent of participation in intermediate associations of all kinds, so voluntary associations are only one relevant form of 'participation'. Voluntary associations are seen as related to community structure in two ways: they are linked with each other and with institutions and voluntary associations give rise to extensive personal ties. An approach to voluntary associations is the 'work-leisure' perspective which asks whether there are systematic relations between leisure activities and work activities. Voluntary associations are non-statutory bodies, they are not established by law.
