Operationalization of social capital in small societies: The impact of social media

One of the main theorists in the field of social capital defines the concept as referring to: “Connections among individuals – social networks and the norms of reciprocity and trustworthiness that arise from them” (Putnam 2000, p. 19). Several surveys show that Denmark has the world record in social capital and that Danes are among the world’s most trusting people (Ex. European Values Survey and World Value Survey, World Bank). Despites of this world record, it is not all bliss. For instance, citizens are protesting and marching to demonstrate discontent with local school closings, and the inequalities between cities and rural areas are getting more pronounced. If Denmark is to keep its social capital and strengthen the regional development, we need to examine the condition of the social capital and find ways to maintain or maybe even strengthen its stock. However, it is difficult to measure a stock of social capital, since it does not have the same physical presence as money in the bank. Furthermore, in 2013, network takes many different forms. Internet and smart phones have introduced other ways of real time networks like Facebook and Skype. With a smartphone you have your network with you at all times. One click on the app and you are connected to your network. These types of network are not only used by individuals to get in touch with each other, but also by civic associations to inform their citizens, and as a platform for communication among the citizens. They are also used by educational institutions as platforms for offering educations on different locations in the periphery. How do these new possibilities affect the social capital of small communities and thus the regional development? Does it enhance the sense of community cohesion, or is this just another way of communicating? This article will examine these questions through three case studies covering the educational (schools) and cultural (museums) sector in different settings in rural Denmark.