Theory to Practice: Policy Recommendations for Fostering Economic Development through Social Capital

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Engbers, Trent A.; Rubin, Barry M.
• 署名单位: Indiana University System; Indiana University Bloomington
• 刊物名称: PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION REVIEW
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0033-3352
• DOI: 10.1111/puar.12925
• 发表日期: 2018
• 页码: 567-578
• 关键词: UNITED-STATES; partnerships; GROWTH

摘要

Proponents of social capital theory have long argued not only that it is in the best interest of civic life to build social capital but also that social capital is vital for the economic health of communities. This has been confirmed by recent research showing that social capital, especially in its bridging form, is positively associated with job creation at the metropolitan statistical area level. At the same time, social capital is often viewed as something either inherent or absent within a community. This article takes on that assumption by presenting a policy-based approach to developing social capital. It provides two theoretical explanations for how social capital affects economic development and identifies four lessons for economic development practitioners to use to enhance social capital. These research-based recommendations for economic development practitioners and policy makers seek to improve the social capital and, consequently, the economic development of their community. Evidence for Practice Practitioners should begin economic development activities by assessing their community's current stock of social capital using one of many techniques appropriate for their planned intervention. Community stakeholders can be intentional about building relationships for economic development. Practitioners need to expand the range and type of organizations involved in economic development planning. Information flow can be increased and barriers reduced through social capital interventions.