Duke (1998) stated that individuals are seen to occupy roles which represent sets

 of expectations and these roles are a function of social context and individual

 understanding. An assumption about human nature supports this "role theory" is that

 humans are capable of self-reflection and evaluation. Inquiry in sociological research

 must focus on understanding how people define situations, determine what is expected of

 them, and select courses of action. Role expectations become an important source of

 information for the study of organizations.

 Organizing is as much a bottom-up philosophy and process as a method to win

 victories on specific issues as people are encouraged to take direct action on their own

 issues, not encouraged to look to others to act on their behalf The greatest organizational

 mileage occurs when a group of members are directly involved in winning a victory. The

 lesson is that "we won because we are organized, there is strength in numbers." Such

 strategies build a sense of ownership and control, empowering people through the process

 of organizing as well as through benefits achieved (Staples, 1984).

 Membership in Organizations

 The growth of an organization depends on retaining members and recruiting new

 ones. Success depends on a combination of things: a shared organizational vision, an

 effective group process and a strong capacity for leadership development. The long-

 range vision of an organization is key to keeping and attracting new members. There

 needs to be a sense of community and the challenge of higher goals. More people will

 stay active in an organization if they feel they are taking part in something important and

 exciting. Some membership attrition is inevitable as people's lives, actions, and

responsibilities change over time. "Only by attracting and involving new people can the