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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Churches as a Stock of Social Capital for Promoting Social Development in Western Cape Communities
Author:Swart, IgnatiusISNI
Year:2006
Periodical:Journal of Religion in Africa
Volume:36
Issue:3-4
Pages:346-378
Language:English
Geographic term:South Africa
Subjects:Church
community development
social networks
Religion and Witchcraft
Development and Technology
External link:https://www.jstor.org/stable/pdf/27594391.pdf
Abstract:The aim of this article is to present a perspective on the manner and extent to which Christian churches may be considered as an important stock of social capital for promoting social development outcomes in selected communities in the Western Cape, South Africa. Taking the recently presented policy outline on social capital formation in this province as the contextual framework for analysis and reflection, the results of recently executed demographic and socio-empirical research are utilized in particular to advance a perspective on churches. It is argued in conclusion that churches and other faith-based organizations in the researched communities have an important strategic significance for a social capital formation agenda, despite their apparent lack of progressive social praxis. Their comparative advantage over other institutions, the considerable levels of trust invested in them and the manner in which they inspire activities of voluntary outreach, caring and social service are highlighted as special features of the churches. Bibliogr., notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract]
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