I have always been puzzeled by the successes of people who appear to be average and the failures of those, you would expect to be destined to great achievement.
Recently, when reading the book referenced below, the author James Tuten, made reference to the concept of "cultural and social capital" as being a significant factor in the way rice agriculture was conducted in the sea islands of South Carolina and the images one might have today of life in that time. He outlined how social capital played a part in the intermediate successes and long term failures of the rice economy.
Having missed sociology courses, in the pursuit of an engineering degree, and witnessing the era of social networking extant in Facebook and Myspace, I became interested in understanding what "social capital" is and perhaps how its understanding might answer the question presented in the first paragraph.
I did take the economics courses in the engineering curriculum and so I understood the concept of financial capital but social capital, what is that and what can it do for you?
As I pursue this little journey, I will offer a starting definition derived from some initial readings.
Social Capital : The tangible and intangible benefits of being in relationship with others, either individually or in a group.
It is social capital that may persuade a friend to recommend
you for a job at his or her company. It is social capital that makes one a respected member of a community. It is social capital that allows a political party to influence the thinking of the electorate.
Why amass social capital; how do you value it; how do you go about building it; how do you use it and hang onto it. There are many more questions that can come to mind and perhaps this blog can find some answers.
If interested, I would ask you to explore with me and become a contributor.
Click "Follower" to the right side of the screen.
/// Marv
Ref:
Low Country Time and Tide,
The Fall of the South Carolina Rice Kingdom
By James H.Tuten
University Of South Carolina Press
