Although community participation is one of the most popular themes in development studies today, many of the complex and controversial issues attending the concept have not been properly debated. A major concern is the role of the state in community participation. While some believe that the state should encourage and sponsor community participation, others reject state involvement on the ground that it dilutes participatory ideals. This is the first book to examine in detail the question of the role of the state in community participation. It asks whether state involvement is beneficial or harmful to community participation and whether community and state resources can be harmonized to promote social development. In addition to its central theme, this book traces the history of community participation ideas and provides a detailed exposition of the theory and practice of the subject. It is essential reading for all students of development studies, public administration, sociology, social work and social administration interested in Third World issues.