Networks, Norms, and Trust
Robert Putnam defined Social Capital as the features of social organization that improve the efficiency of society by facilitating coordinated actions. Just as physical capital (tools) and human capital (education) increase productivity, social capital (relationships) increases the capacity of a group to solve collective problems.
It acts as the "connective tissue" or substrate of the Myceloom. In a forest, the mycelium distributes nutrients; in a human community, social capital distributes trust and reciprocity.
Bonding vs. Bridging
Social capital exists in two primary forms:
- Bonding Capital: Links between similar people (tight circles, strong ties). It acts as "superglue," providing emotional support and solidarity during crisis.
- Bridging Capital: Links between diverse groups (loose circles, weak ties). It acts as "WD-40," enabling information flow, innovation, and broader coordination.
Healthy ecosystems require both. Too much bonding leads to insularity; too much bridging leads to shallowness.