The volume brings together a stellar group of contributors who examine the social capital thesis by means of four different approaches: theoretical, historical, comparative, and empirical. In the end, this book will serve to answer two fundamental questions which have hitherto been neglected: What can a gendered analysis tell us about social capital? And what can social capital tell us about women and politics?
"Gender and Social Capital is an ideal resource for students of political and social theory, community studies, social networks, and collective action. For scholars of social capital, this volume is mandatory. The indicators developed take us leaps forward in the measurement of this elusive concept. Through a broad array of data (of over 50 countries, with more detailed attention to Canada, Britain, and the US), the gendered analyses included in Gender and Social Capital reveal the underdeveloped state of theorizing on social capital. The authors prompt serious consideration of differences in the nature of social capital, the contingent bases for the conversion of social capital, and how social inequalities influence the accumulation and investment of social capital."
-- Fiona Kay, Queen's University, Canadian Journal of Sociology
"The book is an excellent source of fertile ideas on social capital, gender, and politics, with contributions that include careful scrutiny of the nuances of different conceptualizations of social capital and numerous empirical investigations that demonstrate the forms and varieties of gendered politics…an overwhelmingly useful, provocative, and much-needed collection that should be of value to students and researchers alike. I confess that at times I have been skeptical of the value of social capital as either a theoretical or an empirical tool. This volume firmly sets these doubts to rest, presenting a more than convincing case for its utility. The editors and contributors are to be commended for an important and original contribution to a burgeoning literature."
-- Ann R. Tickamyer, Ohio University, American Journal of Sociology
The series Gender Politics, Global Issues features original research examining women's political participation and how gender affects the political life of democratic states. It encompasses a wide variety of approaches and methodologies to explore theoretically relevant topics pertaining to the interrelation of gender, politics, and policy, both in the United States and worldwide.