Social Capital

Social capital is the fellowship, social intercourse, and good will that occurs from a social unit. It is both a private good and a public good.

Reciprocity

Reciprocity is giving to another, without knowing when or if the favor will be returned. Putnam argues that this is an important part of social capital.

Bonding Social Capital

This type of social capital is more inward looking and creates exclusive groups. Examples may include country clubs and fraternal organizations.

Bridging Social Capital

Bridging social capital looks outward and brings together people from diverse social positions.

Small Groups

Small groups, such as reading groups and self-help groups, appear to be weathering the decline better than other types. Self-help groups, in particular, appear to have added members over the last half century. These groups may provide support and social capital to individuals who may not have other ways of getting...