Andrew is correct in his pessimism of many Astro clubs. It is true of many non-astro clubs too.
I was a member of an Astro club which eventually drove everyone away!!!!!!
I used the mistakes from that experience to make sure our club does not follow the same path.
Dictatorships also happen.
I refused to be President of the club I founded. I took on the secretary role.
I was nominated as the President this year, but only coz no-one else wanted it
But the bitter experience from the past has taught me (and a few others) to make sure our club is a bunch of observers/imagers who get together and have a great time. No politics, just looking up (or at a monitor).
We certainly aren't in it for the money. After several Camps, we finally made enough to buy a $500 Scope and mount off ebay!!!! Beware of the 'Financial Monster'. Some clubs have got their acts together and enjoy club nights and respect their fellow members views and ideas. But I agree, many clubs will self destuct. But not all.