The Problem of Forming Social Capital

Reviews / Votes

"Herreros, far more than anyone else to date, gives the concept social capital both theoretical and empirical standing. He clarifies the questions that matter, shows how we can answer them, and even answers some. This is a truly cross-national study, informed by sophisticated analytics and imaginative tests of plausible hypotheses. His most important finding is that the state fosters social capital directly through its efficacy in enforcing agreements and indirectly through its subsidies of associations. Herreros thus counters many earlier analyses of social capital and provides the basis for further theoretical and policy advance." - Margaret Levi, Jere L. Bacharach Professor of International Studies, University of Washington

"Herreros's Problem of Forming Social Capital is a well-argued analysis of the importance of trust and voluntary associations in civic life. His argument is not mine, but this is an engaging book that will make an important contribution to debates on social capital. More so than almost anyone else, Herreros presents a clear argument about the underlying mechanisms of social capital. His reasoning will play a key role in the ongoing controversy about how and whether trust and membership in civic associations make democracy work better." - Eric Uslaner, University of Maryland, College Park

"This is a brilliant book. The arguments are rigorous and sharp; the evidence, convincing; the style, incisive and witty. Herreros departs from the mainstream literature on social capital showing, first, that social trust can be explained from a rational choice perspective; and second, that the State can generate social capital. Both on theoretical and empirical grounds, the book is a major contribution to the study of social capital; it is also enjoyable to read." - José María Maravall, Juan March Institute, Madrid