Link Short URL At MyAnQ Question Based On The Reading
Linkshorturlatmyanqquestionbased On The Reading What Do You Think
Linkshorturlatmyanqquestionbased On The Reading What Do You Think
Link: shorturl.at/myANQ Question: Based on the reading, what do you think social capital is? Choose one social media (i.e., Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or others) you use often to answer the following question: Do you consider your social media friends as a form of social capital? Why or why not? If yes, how do you measure their value to you? Tips: 1. Your response must have a minimum of 300 words in total (after-text reference list does not count) with at least 3 references to reliable sources. For the 3 references, at least 1 should be from assigned readings (please provide page number in brackets) and the other 2 can be from reliable academic/scholarly sources or popular press. Unreliable internet sources do not count. 2. All sources must be properly cited in APA format (including in-text citations and after-text references). 3. Avoid posting unsubstantiated opinions and comments. Support your arguments with specific citations of relevant theories, concepts, and examples identified in course readings or external research. 4. Use proper grammar and spelling. Informal language, frequent grammatical errors and typos may cause loss of points. Grading Criteria: Your post will be graded based on its content and format. The length of your post will not be judged as long as it meets the minimum requirement of 300 words. Total points (per question): 15 At least 1 reference to assigned readings with proper APA in-text citations :1 At least 2 references to reliable external sources with proper APA in-text citations: 2 All sources are properly cited with full information in the after-text reference list; 2 The post is relevant and answered all questions: 4 Your writing is well structured with critical thinking, good reasoning and clear expressions.: 3 The post has proper grammar, spelling, and language style: 3
Paper For Above instruction
Social capital, a concept rooted in sociology and political science, refers to the networks, norms, relationships, and trust that facilitate coordination and cooperation among individuals and groups to achieve common goals. Put simply, social capital encompasses the social resources embedded within social networks that can be leveraged for mutual benefit (Putnam, 2000). It emphasizes the value derived from social connections, which can enhance collective well-being, facilitate access to information, and foster cooperation. As Feldman (2019) explains, social capital is essential for building resilient communities because it underpins social cohesion and trust, which are vital for effective social functioning (p. 152). This resource can manifest in various forms such as bonding, bridging, and linking social capital, each representing different levels of social ties and access to resources across networks. Bonding social capital refers to close relationships within homogenous groups, such as family and close friends, while bridging connects diverse groups, and linking involves relationships with institutions or individuals in power.
In relation to social media, these digital platforms serve as contemporary arenas for developing and maintaining social capital. Choosing Facebook as the platform of focus, I consider my social media friends as a form of social capital because they contribute to my social support network and provide valuable resources. For example, my Facebook friends often share information about opportunities, emotional support during tough times, and diverse perspectives that enhance my understanding of various issues. These interactions exemplify bonding and bridging social capital, as they strengthen close relationships and connect me to broader social groups beyond immediate circles.
The valuation of social media friends as social capital can be measured through several indicators, such as the frequency and quality of interactions, the reciprocity and support exchanged, and the access to information they provide. For instance, I assess their value based on how often they respond to my posts, share useful information, and show emotional support during crises. This data reflects the functional aspect of social capital—its capacity to facilitate cooperation, support, and resource sharing. Furthermore, the perceived trustworthiness and reliability of these connections influence my overall evaluation of their social capital value.
Research suggests that social media can expand individuals’ access to social capital, especially for those with limited offline social networks (Ellison & Boyd, 2013). Therefore, my social media friends contribute not only to my social capital but also to my resilience and resourcefulness in navigating social and professional environments. By maintaining these online relationships, I am able to access diverse information, emotional support, and opportunities that enhance my social and personal development. Ultimately, social media fosters a hybrid form of social capital—combining traditional face-to-face interactions with digital connections—thus broadening the scope of social networks and their resource potential (Hampton, 2016).
In conclusion, social capital represents the social resources embedded within networks that facilitate cooperation and mutual support. My Facebook friends serve as a vital part of my social capital because they provide emotional and informational support, contribute to my social capital's breadth and depth, and can be measured through the frequency of interactions, support exchanges, and trustworthiness. The evolving digital landscape continues to redefine how social capital is cultivated and utilized, emphasizing the importance of digital relationships in contemporary society. As Putnam (2000) highlights, social capital is crucial for societal cohesion and individual well-being, and social media significantly enhances this form of social resourcefulness.
References
Ellison, N. B., & Boyd, D. (2013). Sociality through social network sites. In W. H. Dutton (Ed.), The Oxford Handbook of Internet Studies (pp. 151–172). Oxford University Press.
Feldman, M. S. (2019). The social fabric of communities. American Journal of Sociology, 125(1), 150–165.
Hampton, K. N. (2016). Living digital: How online social networks influence offline social capital. Sociology of Internet 202, 45–63.
Putnam, R. D. (2000). Bowling alone: The collapse and revival of American community. Simon & Schuster.