The concept of social capital in academic discussion and in public policy

Ignjatović, Suzana (2012) The concept of social capital in academic discussion and in public policy. In: Social and Cultural Capital in Western Balkan Societies. Center for Empirical Cultural Studies of South-East Europe and IFDT, Belgrade, pp. 11-27. ISBN 978-86-89079-02-9

Text Ignjatovic_Suzana_2012_M44.pdf - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives. Download (444kB)

Abstract

The paper aims to provide an overview of contemporary theories of social capital. The concept of social capital was introduced into academic discourse at the begin- ning of the 20th century, but it became popular at the end of 20thcentury. The paper presents a short history of the concept (authors Hanifan and Dewey). The central part of the paper focuses on current theoretical developments. The main three lines of the theoretical conceptualization of social capital are presented: three dominant authors (Bourdieu, Coleman, Putnam), economic/development theories (Becker, Glaeser, Temple, Fukuyama), and network theories of social capital (Nan Lin). Three dimensions are briefly discussed in all the above theories: definition, paradigmatic framework, and methodology. The concluding part of the paper deals with another distinct issue with regard to the concept of social capital, its popularity in public policy and political discourse at the end of 20th century.

Actions (login required)

View Item