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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Association and Institution?

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The main difference between an association and an institution lies in their nature and purpose. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

  1. Nature: An association is an organized group of people with specific goals in mind, while an institution refers to the organized way of doing things and a procedure of working. Institutions are more abstract and can also be thought of as systems of norms and procedures.
  2. Stability: Associations can be temporary in nature and lack stability, whereas institutions are more stable and permanent.
  3. Legal Status: Associations have a legal status, whereas institutions do not.
  4. Control: Associations exercise control in a formal way, whereas institutions exercise control in an informal manner.
  5. Formation: Associations are formed to fulfill specific needs and necessities, while institutions evolve over time and are time-tested and trusted.

Examples of associations include country clubs, flood relief associations, and political parties, while examples of institutions include universities, families, and marriage. In summary, associations are organized groups of people with common goals, while institutions are systems of norms, procedures, and ways of doing things.

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  • What is the Difference Between Association and Institution?
  • Comparative Table: Association vs Institution

    • Comparative Table: Association vs Institution

    Here is a table comparing the differences between associations and institutions:

    Aspect Association Institution
    Nature Associations are voluntary groupings of people or organizations with a common interest or goal. Institutions are permanent bodies with defined structures, often created by governments or other authoritative bodies.
    Structure Associations tend to have more flexible structures, accommodating variations in size, structure, and membership criteria. Institutions have more formal and established structures.
    Independence Associations often operate independently from governments or other institutions, maintaining some degree of autonomy in their decision-making processes. Institutions can be educational, financial, governmental, or religious in nature and may be created by governments or other authoritative bodies.
    Membership Associations are comprised of voluntary membership between individuals or organizations that share a common interest or goal. Institutions are governed by a set of rules and regulations and can be local, national, or international in scope.
    Purpose Associations are created to fulfill a specific purpose or function, often serving a particular interest group. Institutions serve a broader societal role, providing essential services, creating frameworks for governance, and upholding values and norms within communities or nations.

    In summary, associations and institutions both play significant roles in society, but they differ in their nature, structure, independence, membership, and purpose. Associations are typically more flexible and voluntary, while institutions are more formal, established, and serve a broader societal role.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.