ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the growing literature on how civil associations can foster both market success and political change. It argues that much of this literature—especially writings on civil society—focuses too much on formally organized and voluntary institutions, and too little on informal associations rooted in community life. The cultural and social resources of China and Taiwan have a great potential to adapt and contribute to the modern world, including the promotion of thriving civil organizations between family and state. The chapter explores the various sides of local association, a clear gender pattern came into focus: women consistently take leading roles in the informal sector, pushing at the boundaries of local association, and creating the armature of potential political changes. Taiwan's experience differed from most of Chinese history in two critical ways: its success in the market economy, and the eventual decision of its political elite to step back from attempts at total social control.
