Race, Neighborhoods, and the Misuse of Social Capital - by J Jennings (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

This anthology tackles three key issues: how social capital is discussed within the contexts of racial inequality, how this dialogue informs public policy regarding neighbourhood revitalization and economic development, and how effective a strategy utilization of social capital is for improving inner city living conditions.

Review Quotes

"In this significant and crucial work, James Jennings and his collaborators provocatively call into question myriad assumptions regarding social capital's role as a useful heuristic and theoretical framework, especially in resolving issues of racial and spatial inequality. With passion andclarity, Jennings and his collaborators provide viable theory and convincing data on how social capital has often been utilized to exclude rather than incorporate marginalized communities in global contexts. The volumeis clearly a timelyscholarly contribution that reinvigorates the debates about the causes and consequences of inequality, as well as the unexamined role that social capital plays in fostering rather than undermining marginalization."

- Yvette M. Alex-Assensoh, Associate Professor of Political Science Department, Indiana University, Bloomington

"People interested in meaningful community change should read this excellent collection. It brings an impressive variety of new as well as familiar voices to the critical discussion of what 'social capital' means for low income neighborhoods and for people of color. The arguments are tough and theoretically sound. The grassroots examples are well drawn and to the point. Jennings and his contributors help us see the need to remain cautious about visions of community that avoid questions of power, history and economic justice."

- Ann Withorn, Professor of Social Policy, College of Public and Community Service, University of Massachusetts, Boston"This anthology offers a rich analysis and critique of the concept of social capital, using multiple lenses and reaching a range of audiences."

- Louise Simmons, Associate Professor of Urban Issues in Social Work, University of Connecticut"This volume is unique in its emphasis of racial hierarchy and stratification in the development and implementation of public policy in the U.S. The authors also add an international dimension that broadens and strengthens their discussion."

- Louis Kushnick, Senior Lecturer in Sociology, University of Manchester

About the Author

JAMES JENNINGS is Professor of Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning, Tufts University, USA.