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MEASURING SOCIAL CAPITAL
In this research we have adapted a definition of social capital mainly derived from Putnam and Bourdieu and further developed by educationalists (see Baron, et al, 2000; Schuller et al, 2004; Field, 2005; Balatti et al, 2006). This definition is: 'Social capital is the networks, together with shared norms, values and social trust that facilitate co-ordination and co-operation for mutual benefit, within and between groups'. However, we qualify this by recognising that social capital in a divided society may be used to mask and reproduce patterns of privilege by the powerful as well as having the potential to be a resource for challenging inequality by less powerful groups.
Particular social capital indices were selected because they represented the defining characteristics of the concept identified in previous research (Balatti et al, 2006; Li et al, 2005; Murtagh, 2002; Tuijnman and Boudard, 2001; Halman, 2001; OECD, 2001; ABS (2000); Baron, et al, 2000; Campbell et al, 1999; Bullen and Onyx, 1998). Four main categories were selected: a) developing social contacts through growing friendships and associations; taking action to solve problems; attachments to a range of social networks, developing trusting relationships: b) civic participation through involvement in community/pressure/political groups; membership of networks; voting: c) relationships with those with power through the ability to respond to authorities; changes in terms of influencing authorities; expressing opinions and broadening expectations; and d) bridging social capital through social interactions with people from different backgrounds; sharing information and skills; and changes in beliefs about one's own life and that of others.
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