The Evolution of the Concept of Civil Society: A Theoretical Grounding

Abstract

This research aims to contribute to the theoretical grounding of the concept of civil society and its evolution. It traces the development of this concept across two distinct stages: the first, in which civil society was linked to political society; and the second, in which the concept became associated with the phenomenon of the state. The study employs a descriptive-analytical approach to establish the theoretical foundations of the civil society concept and its evolution. It utilizes a desk-based research methodology—involving the collection, organization, classification, and analysis of data—drawing upon primary sources such as seminal texts and pioneering intellectual contributions that have analyzed and conceptualized civil society. Additionally, it incorporates secondary sources, including books, periodicals, journals, academic research, and information available online.