Monday, February 23, 2009

Midterm

Give an example of both bridging and bonding social capital. Which one is inclusive and external, and which, exclusive and internal? Which one is “glue” and which one is “WD-40”? 



-  An easy example of bridging social capital, and a subject we briefly discussed in discussion, could be something such as the Civil Rights Movement.  Because the Civil Rights Movement attempted to unite people of all races, not just African Americans, it "bridged" the gap between whites and blacks.  Bridging capital is designed to help more than just an individual or a small group, but rather a wide range of differing populations.

- An example of bonding social capital could be a church youth group who meets once a week.  They work together to broaden the religious scopes of one another.  The group is more close-knit, and individuals converse with one another to share religious views and perspectives.  If this group decides to go to a soup kitchen for the homeless, it becomes bridging social capital as well.

- Bonding is inclusive and external, while bridging social capital is exclusive and internal.

- Bonding acts as the glue, by creating stronger relationships within the group, they may also create stronger out-groups.  Bridging social capital is the WD-40, which makes out-groups and society run a bit smoother.

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