Social Capital (Pierre Bourdieu)

Social capital, according to Pierre Bourdieu, refers to the networks, relationships, and trust among individuals and groups that facilitate cooperation and access to resources. It’s the value derived from social connections, which can provide support, information, or opportunities. Unlike material assets, social capital is about the quality and quantity of social ties that can help people achieve their goals or improve their social standing. Bourdieu emphasizes that different social groups have varying levels of social capital, which often reinforce social inequalities and influence one's position within society.