Rethinking the links between social exclusion and transport disadvantage through the lens of social capital. (April 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schwanen, Tim; Lucas, Karen; Akyelken, Nihan; Cisternas Solsona, Diego; Carrasco, Juan-Antonio; Neutens, Tijs
• Is Part Of: Transportation research. Volume 74(2015)
• Page Start: 123
• Page End: 135
• Publication Date: 2015-04
• Subjects: Social exclusion -- Transport disadvantage -- Social capital -- Literature review -- Social network; Transportation -- Research -- Periodicals; 388.011
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tra.2015.02.012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0965-8564

Abstract

Highlights: Understandings of social capital in the transport literature are critically evaluated. Social capital is not always benign: it can reduce or enhance social exclusion and transport disadvantage. Empirical evidence on links among social exclusion, transport disadvantage and social capital is sketchy. Avenues for further research are outlined. Abstract: This paper provides a critical review of the progress in understanding the linkages between transport disadvantage and social exclusion. It follows earlier work in proposing social capital as a concept that mediates those linkages but argues that transport researchers must not confine themselves to conceptualisations of social capital as predominantly benign and capable of reducing transport disadvantage and social exclusion. A range of hypothetical pathways is discussed, highlighting the Janus-faced character of social capital as a medium for both the effectuation of progressive social change and the perpetuation and creation of social inequalities. An analysis is provided of the extent to which the recent transport-related literature supports or rejects the hypothesised pathways, and key avenues for future research are identified.