social capital: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Not exactly. Networking is a conscious activity to build professional connections. Social capital is the broader, often less intentional, stock of trust, norms, and networks that exists in a community, which networking might tap into or contribute to.

Yes, an individual can possess social capital in the form of their personal network, reputation, and the trust others have in them. However, the concept is most powerful when applied to groups, communities, or societies as a collective asset.

Bonding social capital refers to strong, inward-looking ties within a homogeneous group (like close family or ethnic community). Bridging social capital refers to weaker, outward-looking ties that connect different social groups (like acquaintances from diverse backgrounds). Both are important for a healthy society.

Yes. High social capital within a closed group (like a criminal gang or an exclusive club) can foster distrust of outsiders, reinforce inequalities, or enable corrupt practices. This is sometimes called 'negative social capital' or the 'dark side' of social capital.

The networks, relationships, norms, and trust within a society or group that enable cooperation and collective action for mutual benefit.

Social capital is usually formal, academic, professional in register.

Social capital: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsəʊʃl ˈkæpɪtl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsoʊʃl ˈkæpɪtl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.