The Role of Trade Associations and Professional Business Societies in America

A thoughtful examination of trade associations and business societies and their profound influence upon contemporary American society. The author analyzes the influence upon government and public of industry, trade, business, and professional associations as well as chambers of commerce. He emphasizes the value of research performed for the national organizations, points to areas in which special contributions have been made, and explores the fields in which more remains to be done.

Professor Bradley places special emphasis on the contributions of these various associations to the aspirations of a free society and the growth and development of the individual in that society. He develops the theme that such voluntary organizations have played and will continue to play a significant role in improving the democratic process, sponsoring a comprehensive system of higher education, encouraging and enforcing codes of ethics, securing the general acceptance of nationwide standards, and increasing the economic welfare of the individual.