Inequality in Social Capital Over the Past Half-Century: Trends, Context, and Consolidation

• In Event: Mathematical Sociology Section Flash Talks
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 5. Inequality in Social Capital Over the Past Half-Century: Trends, Context, and Consolidation

Abstract

Is social capital declining in America? How has inequality in social capital co-evolved with increasing income inequality? Answers to the first question are varied and contested. I draw on a new comprehensive database of evidence on social capital in the US for the last 50 years to inform both questions. Empirical evidence does not favor simple conclusions, and scholars need to be careful when asserting robust claims. Nonetheless, there are two clear areas where social capital metrics have declined, which seem essential for social life. I also highlight measurement problems that make this question difficult to answer and should be priorities for future research. More importantly, this research provides new results for the second question, grounded on 91 measures of social capital from 23 US surveys. I find that overall inequality in social capital has increased drastically. However, different dimensions of social capital have followed different trajectories. This study sheds new light on the study of social integration in an era of increasing inequality.

Author

• Nan Feng, New York University