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Question

Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance?

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2023 (Prelims) CSAT Official Paper (28-May-2023)

Social capital refers to the networks of relationships among people in a society, facilitating cooperation and collective action for mutual benefit. It comprises elements like trust, shared norms, reciprocal relationships, and civic engagement. Essentially, it's the "glue" that holds communities together, enabling them to achieve common goals more effectively than individuals acting alone. For example, a neighborhood where residents trust each other and have active community associations possesses high social capital, making it easier to collectively address local issues like safety or environmental clean-up.

Social capital significantly enhances good governance in several ways. Firstly, high trust reduces transaction costs in governance, as agreements are easier to forge and enforce without excessive legal oversight. Secondly, strong civic networks enable greater citizen participation and collective action, providing valuable input to policy-making and fostering accountability. For instance, active citizens' groups can monitor public services and advocate for better policies, making governance more responsive and transparent. Thirdly, shared norms promote a culture of law-abiding behavior and public integrity, reducing corruption and fostering ethical conduct among both citizens and government officials. It creates an environment where cooperation, rather than conflict, is the default, leading to more efficient and inclusive public service delivery.

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