There are interesting points still made. In Cole's society, there are a number of associations with different functions. It's not sufficient for an individual to be represented by just one. All social actions needs the participation of those affected. For Cole, as for Mill, as for Rousseau, the educational function of participation is crucial.
Economic inequalities are fatal to democracy.
Participation in the work-place is especiallly stressed. It's a very radical view. Pateman repeats Rousseau's arguments for participation that it is educative and develops qualities for further participation as well as subsidiary advantages that it has an integrative effect and that it helps acceptance of collective decisions. Participation is most important in the industry because most people spend so much of their lifetime at work and the climate for education in collective affairs is especially promising. She says that most hobbies do not involve the production of anything.