Social networks, social capital and poverty: panacea or placebo?

Citation

Matthews P & Besemer K (2015) Social networks, social capital and poverty: panacea or placebo?. Journal of Poverty and Social Justice, 23 (3), pp. 189-201. https://doi.org/10.1332/175982715X14448122286274

Abstract
Our understanding of the links between social networks and the causes or solutions to poverty have been enhanced through theoretical and empirical research on the concept of social capital. In this paper we discuss how social networks and social capital have commonly been presented as a problem or a panacea in policy regarding neighbourhoods and worklessness and then contrast this with recent evidence. We conclude that policy misrecognises the links between poverty and social networks and social capital and through cuts in public services in the UK, is currently undermining social capital and social networks.

Keywords
poverty; social networks; social capital; neighbourhood effects; employment;social policy

Journal
Journal of Poverty and Social Justice: Volume 23, Issue 3

People

Professor Peter Matthews

Professor, Sociology, Social Policy & Criminology