This presentation explores how social capital can be harnessed to support place transformation. Despite its recognized importance, social capital remains poorly understood due to fragmented definitions and theories. By framing it as a form of capital, this talk presents a unified framework that clarifies how elements like trust, networks, and norms enable collective action. Drawing on examples such as walkable neighbourhoods, the presentation explores how social capital both drives and is reshaped by transformative initiatives. The implications for policy are significant, highlighting the need for context-sensitive strategies that enhance both individual and collective dimensions of social capital while avoiding simplistic assumptions that “more is always better.” Practical strategies are offered for building context-sensitive, effective social capital interventions to support lasting community change.
This event is a hybrid event. You can attend in person in HLTH EXP 1686 or online.
Event Co-Sponsor
Event Co-Sponsor
Speaker
Speaker Bio
Tristan Claridge is the Director of the Institute for Social Capital, a small independent research, consulting, and training organization working to advance the concept of social capital. His work utilizes the concept of social capital in various applications, including economic development, community development, organizational and project performance, poverty alleviation, and others. Over the last twenty years, he has worked to improve the theories of social capital and assist others to improve their understanding and use of the concept in research, practice, and policy. He has developed an approach to the application of social capital that is logically consistent, theoretically grounded, and easy to understand and apply to research and practical applications. He draws on lessons from economics, sociology, political science, psychology, urban planning, and any other discipline that contributes understanding to the concept. Driven by his belief in the power of discourse and collaboration, Tristan continues to work towards advancing social capital theory and practice globally. Tristan is the current President of the International Social Capital Association and chair of the Social Capital Paradigm Interest Group.