Chapter 7
Different Groups

We all belong to various groups. Some groups we associate with voluntarily; other group associations are involuntary. Some examples of what are often considered to be involuntary group associations are clarified by a few questions:

• Are you male or female?
• What country are you a citizen of? (Or, are you in the group of stateless people?)
• What is your native language?
• Are you over 50 years old, or under 50 years old?

Some examples of groups that may be considered to be voluntary associations are also clarified by some questions:

• Are you religious or not? If so, what religious group are you a part of? Or, are you part of the group of people that consider themselves to not be religious?
• Are you part of the group that has been vaccinated against polio?
• Are you associated with a political party? Or, are you part of the group of people that does not have a party affiliation?
• Are you a fan of a particular sport? Are you active in a particular sport?

The distinction between what is a “voluntary” association and what is an “involuntary” association is often not very clear, and may vary some depending on culture. For example, many people do not consider their religion to be a voluntary association, as their culture may not promote free choice in this area. Another example: Vaccination against polio may be legally required for many people, in which case being part of the “vaccinated” group may be considered an involuntary group association. Or, perhaps your parents had you vaccinated, and you had little choice in the matter, and there is no way to become unvaccinated now.

Anyway, this brings us to two more self-evident truths:

Everyone is associated with various groups.

Some group associations are voluntary;
some group associations are involuntary.

For Further Reflection:

• What are some of the groups you are affiliated with?
• Which of those groups are you part of voluntarily?
• Which of those groups are you part of involuntarily?

Contents | Next