Definition
Each member voluntarily joins his or her fate with that of his or her fellow members and that of the genootschap's ups and downs. Such a society also usually has a number of other characteristics : *Size and composition: The number of members of a society is limited. A society can be sizeable, but it is never a mass association. Thus its intentions are decided only by its character. *Objective: The target of a genootschap is always carried forward by its members with a certain degree of seriousness, as well as a great social aim. From this also results its solemn character and interest in decorum.Kinds
* Discreet genootschap * Geheim genootschap * Initiatiegenootschap * Wetenschappelijk genootschapExamples
* Republikeins Genootschap * Nieuw Republikeins Genootschap *