Does the welfare state reduce inequalities in people's social capital?

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse whether social capital inequalities are smaller in more extensive welfare states.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses data from European/World Values Surveys.

Findings

No effect of welfare stateness on social capital inequality is found.

Research limitations/implications

An extension of the analysis with a broader range of welfare states might show effect.

Originality/value

This is the first time in literature that the relationship between welfare stateness and social capital inequality is empirically studied.

Citation

van Oorschot, W. and Finsveen, E. (2010), "Does the welfare state reduce inequalities in people's social capital?", International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, Vol. 30 No. 3/4, pp. 182-193. https://doi.org/10.1108/01443331011033364