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A notable fraction of the population in developed countries is now using networked numerical devices. A variety of metaphors have been used in an attempt to better understand, describe and explain this phenomenon but, at the same time, many empirical studies have been carried out as well. In this paper we focus specifically on collective, non market uses of Tic by the “civil society” or what is sometimes called as well the « third sector » of the economy. We will show that despite the need for new and better tools, the uptake of Tic in this sector has been rapid and is strongly anchored in efforts to reinforce human ties and relationships. “Associationism” is the name we’ve given to this general goal of learning and doing things together over Internet. This concept designates a current of sociological thought dating back to the middle of the 19th century in France and will be discussed in connection with other approaches in the area.