Social networks of participants in voluntary associations

In which respects do the social networks of members of voluntary associations differ from those of non-members? We derive contrasting predictions on the effects of characteristics of social networks of participants in voluntary associations from two types of social capital theory. Lin (2001), Flap (1999), Burt (2001) and others conceive of social capital as access by individuals to the resources of others through social ties. We call this perspective ‘individual social capital theory’ because it focuses on the benefits of social capital for individuals. Because resources embedded in social relations do not only advance individual careers, but also facilitate participation and attract the attention of voluntary associations who are ‘prospecting for participants’ (Brady, Schlozman & Verba, 1999), persons with larger networks containing more social resources should be more likely to participate in voluntary associations, especially in instrumental associations. In contrast, Putnam (2000) and Coleman (1990) conceive of social capital as resources inherent in relationships among members of groups or communities that are productive for social solidarity. In this perspective, which we call ‘collective social capital theory’, membership of voluntary associations is often regarded as an indicator of social capital. Because dense networks with a high degree of trust produce a higher level of solidarity, persons in such networks should be more likely to participate in voluntary associations, especially in expressive associations. Using data from the first wave of the Survey of the Social Networks of the Dutch (n=1,007), we find strong support for individual social capital theory. Members of expressive and instrumental associations have more extensive access to social resources. In contrast, no relations with trust and density were found. These results cast doubt on the 'virtuous circles' in social capital assumed by Putnam. Access to social resources partly explained the relation of human capital with membership.