A review of earlier theories on urbanism, mass society, and participation in voluntary associations argues that their concept of such organizations as mediators neglects political factors. Also summarized are classic studies on neighborhoods and political participation. Guidelines for examining participation in community organizations emphasize a neighborhood's political goals, its character, and external influences. Literature which directly addresses community involvement is then evaluated, beginning with research on community activism by women. Several studies are described which view behavior and attitudes within a neighborhood as independent variables that influence the actions of neighborhood residents. Specific topics discussed include neighborhood socialization, circumstances that dictate how people react to neighborhood problems, community behavior in a disaster, social networks, and the influence of race on community organizations. Studies are also explored that treat the impact of a community organization's characteristics on participation and external factors such as homogeneity of interests and costs of communications. Finally, a model is detailed which suggests causal pathways between the various factors affecting participation. It identifies major influences as the size and density of local population, socioeconomic homogeneity or heterogeneity, stability of residence, location and boundedness, relations with outside political authorities, opportunities for community leadership, ongoing problems, neighborhood history, and social networks. Diagrams, 21 footnotes, and a summary of factors that impact collective neighborhood participation are included. A bibliography provides over 300 references.