Patronage als structureel verschijnsel

Samenvatting

It is sometimes thought that patronage is a phenomenon which is limited largely to the catholic world, and that it is exhibited traditionally by the patron fulfilling roles such as that of godfather. Patronage is much more widespread than this, however. Characteristic is the asymmetric relationship between the patron and his client, emphasized by the fact that the patron generally comes from the higher classes. This system is also prevalent in countries in South and South-East Asia. While the patronage relationship is vertical--one member having power and influence, the other needing protection--it also tends to be paternalistic and relatively human. The traditional form of patronage is gradually being changed by a variety of factors, most of them economic. In developing nations, the patronage relationships are often institutionalized. The next step may be seen as the weakening of these vertical relationships and the establishment of horizontal, often revolutionary, organizations. Little is known about this stage, but it may be that the disappearance of patronage is a prerequisite to the establishment of revolutionary movements in these areas. The horizontal relationships may also have certain of the characteristics of a patronage system. P. Tiersma