THE CHINESE CLAN ASSOCIATIONS IN SINGAPORE: SURVIVAL OR DEMISE

Abstract

The current development of Chinese clan associations in Singapore is an intriguing one. While some take to expanding membership and activities, others are increasingly facing associational decline. This academic exercise attempts to account for the differential development of Chinese clan associations today. Chapter One provides an evaluation of the literature on Chinese voluntary and clan associations upon which the research problem of the study is formulated. It also states the objectives of the study and their underlying rationale. The chapter also accounts for the employment of both the structural-functional and organizational maintenance frameworks employed in the study. Chapter Two examines the methodological problems of the study and attempts to provide for solutions. It also accounts for the sampling method employed, the respondents involved, and the data collection process. -0 Chapter Three delineates the historical development of Chinese clan associations in Singapore and accounts for their changing functions and fortunes. Chapter Four examines in detail the current development of Chinese clan associations in Singapore. It accounts for the inability of some associations to overcome resistance to change, thereby, leading to their resultant demise. The chapter also exemplifies how other associations are able to change their roles, norms and values and to effect various maintenance strategies to ensure their maintenance and survival. Chapter Five reports the major findings of the study. It also articulates the relevance of the theoretical frameworks for analyses of Chinese clan associations in Singapore, and affirms the importance of such a study at both the historical and contextual levels.