Addressing the University of Rochester in June 1936, he said that, "One of the reasons why democracy has worked in America is that outside the government and outside the party system, there have existed independent institutions and independent men."
"There have been free churches, free press, free universities and free men with sufficient secured property of their own, farms, factories, shops, professions, savings which were protected by the law. And not dependent on the will of elected or appointed officials."
Trade, business and industry constitute vital elements of civil society as indeed do teachers, educationists and journalists.
It is necessary that citizens strengthen civil society.
And help it's institutions break free, from the crippling reach of state power.
A G Noorani - When state fails, civil society steps in
Deccan Chronicle, August 21, 2016.
