I recently read this concept of “Social Capital” as described by Robert Putnam in his book Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community.
I believe what he says on Social Capital is right on target:
“Social capital refers to connections among individuals – social networks and the norms of reciprocity and trustworthiness that arise from them.”
“Social capital is closely related to what some have called civic virtue. The difference is that social capital calls attention to the fact that civic virtue is most powerful when embedded in a dense network of reciprocal social relations. A society of many virtuous but isolated individuals is not necessarily rich in social capital.”
Notice that Putnam talks about “reciprocal” social relations. This is key. I have always believed that people helping each other, in a variety of ways, is the primary ingredient to everything good we could ever have in our lives.
However, there is not enough reciprocity in modern times. Yes, there are many people who give, yet there are many more people who take (and demand) without giving anything in return. This cannot be a one-way flow. Whenever such a flow of positive energy is one-way, the community will be depleted. And yet this one-way flow has been all too common in our modern societies.
It is clear that everyone must help each other, wherever and whenever needed. Project assistance, friendship, advice, emotional support, and financial support all need to be shared. You help me and I help you. That is the true meaning of community.
Putnam further states that “…social capital is an essential precondition for the healthy functioning of democratic institutions. Social capital is also essential for promoting economic development.” I totally agree.
Yes, we must create more social capital in our neighborhoods and social networks. We can then use this social capital to bring greater prosperity and greater happiness for more people.
Therefore, let us start growing our “social capital”. Think about what you can do to make your neighborhood or social group a better place to be. Build friendships that are meaningful. Offer assistance whenever you can. Be kind, be caring, be positive…and above all “be there” when someone needs your help. In other words, do everything you can to develop a true sense of community.
