ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on how globalization intersects with particular human variables to shape the phenomenon of a virtual and transnational civil society. The relationships among diasporization, community, and Information and Communications Technology (ICTs) are also closely tied to issues of social capital. Wellman et al. identify three dimensions of social capital in the context of these relationships. These are: network capital; community commitment; and participatory. Network capital refers to relationships with friends and work mates for companionship, emotional aid, information, and belonging. Community commitment, exists when people have a strong attitude to community. The last type of social capital, participatory capital, on its part, has to do with interest aggregation and articulation among people that lead to the creation of point accomplishments. The chapter highlights the role of the internet in fostering social capital formation among the African diaspora in the face of globalization. It is important to note that internet interactions, by themselves, do not generate that capital.
