ABSTRACT
This chapter examines an emerging trend in development that is associated with inclusiveness – social capital. Historically, development efforts have focused on human capital development through capacity-building and other individualized initiatives. Recent research has begun to focus on social capital as a mechanism for enhancing inclusion. Shortall, for example, praises recent trends that focus on social capital, noting that inclusive civic engagement can be an end in and of itself and does not necessarily have to lead to economic growth and a healthy democracy. Development goals that relate to the creation of social linkages for persons who are marginalized are not often calculated in economic growth models but are emerging as a characteristic of inclusive development. At the same time, scholars like Levien have identified shortcomings in the capacity of social networks to promote inclusion. In some instances, Levien and others argue, social capital reproduces inequalities because privileged actors benefit from associations with one another. This chapter highlights how social capital is both promoted and critiqued as an approach to inclusive development.
