Briefly discuss "Social Capital theory" of Robert D. Putnam

Robert D. Putnam, in his influential work Bowling Alone (2000), defined social capital as the features of social life—networks, norms, and trust—that enable participants to act together more effectively to pursue shared objectives.

He categorised social capital into two forms:

1. Bonding Social Capital: These are inward-looking ties that reinforce exclusive identities and homogenous groups (e.g., family, close friends). While it provides strong social support, it can sometimes be exclusionary.

2. Bridging Social Capital: These are outward-looking, inclusive ties that bring together people across diverse social cleavages (e.g., ethnic, religious, or political lines). Putnam argued that this is crucial for the health of democracy.

Putnam observed a decline in social capital in the United States, evidenced by decreased civic engagement and trust, which he attributed to factors such as television consumption, suburbanisation, and time pressures. He argued that robust social capital is essential for economic prosperity, effective government, and a healthy democracy.