Societies

Societies are associations for some particular object, such as the promotion of science, art, and literature; the diffusion of knowledge, religion, and morality; intercourse between those of the same profession or trade; the removal of legal grievances; mutual aid in case of distress; and an abundance of other aims, which are either beneficial to the general public or to the members of the society alone. The great scientific, literary, and art associations are many of them separately treated in this work (see ROYAL SOCIETY, ROYAL ACADEMY, &c.). So are many special institutions like the Humane Society (q.v.), the S.P.C.K. (see CHRISTIAN KNOWLEDGE). Others are dealt with in the articles on the subjects with which they concern themselves (LIFEBOAT, TEMPERANCE, BROWNING, &c.). In Britain the term academy is usually reserved for art associations; but on the Continent the great national literary and scientific organisations are usually styled academies, and are treated at the article ACADEMY. So with many American learned associations. See also MISSIONS, BOOK-CLUBS, SECRET SOCIETIES.

The following is a list of the best-known British societies, associations, and institutions in order of date, fuller information as to which may be sought in the Year-book of the Scientific and Learned Societies of Great Britain and Ireland (published annually since 1884). It should be noted that in some cases the society arose out of a minor and older organisation; was itself founded under a somewhat different name; or received its charter of incorporation years after its foundation.

Of American learned associations, whether calling themselves Academy (q.v.) or not, the following are among the more important of several thousand.

Society Islands. See ΤΑΗΤΙ.