Switzerland is recognized for its high level of direct democracy, citizens having the chance to participate directly in the process of decision making of public policies, to intend law initiatives, to amend ordinary laws or the Constitution, to submit referendums. Switzerland enjoys a strong federalism, with high degrees of decentralization at each of three federal levels. A high degree of political decentralization can boost social capital. I intend in this Hausarbeit to observe if the level political decentralization in Switzerland is increasing the social capital, defined in terms of generalized trust, civic cooperation and social cohesiveness.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Abstract
- The Theory
- Social Capital
- Methodology
- Empirical Research
- Findings
- Discussion
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This thesis aims to investigate the relationship between political decentralization and social capital in Switzerland. The work explores whether the high degree of decentralization in Switzerland, particularly in its federal system, contributes to a higher level of social capital.
- The impact of political decentralization on social capital
- The role of direct democracy in fostering social capital
- The multidimensionality of social capital
- The relationship between trust, cooperation, and social cohesion
- The role of civic virtue and public spirit in strengthening social capital
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The abstract provides an overview of the thesis topic, highlighting the unique features of Switzerland's political system and its potential link to social capital. The "Theory" section delves into the theoretical framework, introducing the main hypothesis that a higher degree of decentralization will positively influence social capital in Switzerland. The chapter on "Social Capital" explores the concept, its definition, and its various dimensions, drawing on prominent thinkers like Putnam, Coleman, and Bourdieu. The "Methodology" chapter outlines the research methods employed to investigate the relationship between decentralization and social capital. The "Empirical Research" section presents the empirical findings of the research, while the "Findings" chapter analyzes and interprets the data. The "Discussion" chapter examines the implications of the findings, offering insights into the complex relationship between decentralization and social capital in Switzerland. The "Conclusion" chapter summarizes the key findings, addressing the initial research question and outlining the overall significance of the research.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This thesis explores the connection between political decentralization and social capital in Switzerland. Key concepts include direct democracy, federalism, trust, civic cooperation, social cohesion, and civic virtue. The research draws on theories and findings related to social capital, focusing on its multidimensionality and its impact on society. It utilizes empirical data to analyze the relationship between decentralization and social capital, contributing to the understanding of their influence on social and political dynamics in Switzerland.
- Quote paper
- Cornelia Baciu (Author), 2009, Does Politic Decentralization in Switzerland Strengthen Social Capital? , Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/148657
