Social Capital

Social Capital - Definition

A number of different dimensions make up what is described as "social capital." Among them are: social trust, political participation, civic leadership and associational involvement, a measure of informal social ties, a measure of the diversity of our friendships and the relative equality of civic engagement at a community level.

At the core of social capital is the question of whether or not you can trust other people. Often, trust is forged with specific people through a shared activity or participation in groups and associations. When this individual trust is enlarged to become a more generalized trust of other people, it is extraordinarily valuable. Social trust is, therefore, an important component in getting things accomplished in a community and smoothing social interaction.


Social Capital Benchmark Study: Phase I

Greensboro participated in the Social Capital Benchmark Study in early 2001. We joined three dozen community foundations across the country in this study, the largest-ever survey on civic engagement in America. Nearly 30,000 people, in communities large and small, answered questions about their levels of social and civic involvement. Overall, the study shows that citizens in Guilford County attend places of worship more, volunteer their time and talents more, and give more money to charities when compared to national averages.  However, our area ranks below national averages when it comes to trusting one another, socializing with friends, and playing an active role in the political process. To download a copy of the findings from the study, click on the link below.

According to the study, levels of civic engagement in a community (e.g., how much residents trusted others, socialized with others and joined with others) predicted the quality of community life and residents' happiness far better than the level of income or education.

The Guilford County Social Capital Community Benchmark Survey was funded by: Joseph M. Bryan Foundation, Cemala Foundation, Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro, Hillsdale Fund, News & Record Foundation, Moses Cone-Wesley Long Community Health Foundation, Tannenbaum-Sternberger Foundation, and Weaver Foundation.

Greensboro is participating in the 2006 Social Capital Benchmark Survey! Developed by Harvard professor Robert D. Putnam and leading social scientists, the national survey looks at a variety of personal connections including:  neighborhood groups, club memberships, public affairs participation, faith-based activities, volunteerism, and socializing with friends and colleagues. 

This second national study represents an excellent opportunity for Greensboro to examine its progress over the past five years.  It will be exciting to compare our results with the findings from the initial study conducted in 2001.  The survey examines how social connectedness impacts the community and how diverse relationships, interpersonal involvement, and civic engagement of citizens can affect the direction of a community.  Click on the icon above to download the 2001 report.

Approximately 10 communities across the country will participate in this follow-up and a national sample will be included.

The Social Capital Benchmark Survey is designed to measure the current level of social capital in a community.  The core of the project is a standardized telephone survey administered by a national polling firm.  The survey instrument includes a customized component for Greensboro.  The instrument reflects the most recent academic research in Social Capital measurement, as well as the best practices of community organizations.  A random poll of 450 people aged 18 and older will yield statistically significant results.  We will receive data printouts as well as a standard set of analyses and charts on how our community compares with the national sample.  Our local “academic partner,” Dr. Doug Easterling, will once again help us analyze the data, interpret the findings, and present this information to the funding partners.  The funding partners will use the results in a wide variety of ways to foster civic discussion and to identify activity that will help build Social Capital.  Preliminary findings are expected in the summer of 2006.   Funding Partners for 2006 will be announced soon.