An important new contribution to the social sciences is the idea of social capital. Social capital consists of the resources that are embedded within people's social networks. Validated by empirical research, this book presents social capital research as an integrated theoretical research programme. The programme consists of two hypotheses. The social capital hypothesis holds that those with better social capital are better able to realise their ends. And according to the investment hypothesis people invest in ties to the degree that these are instrumental in achieving their ends. The volume...

The idea of a social capital research program has become increasingly significant within the social sciences. This collection of essays contributes to a theoretical integration as well as standardization of measurement instruments and co-ordination of empirical research on the significance of social capital.