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The Essentials of Social Cohesion: A Literature Review

Author

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  • David Schiefer

    (Jacobs University Bremen
    Expert Council of German Foundations on Integration and Migration)

  • Jolanda Noll

    (Jacobs University Bremen
    FernUniveristät Hagen (University of Hagen))

Abstract

The social cohesion literature repeatedly criticizes a lack of consensus regarding the theoretical conceptualization of the construct. The current paper attempts to clarify this ambiguity by providing a literature review on the recent approaches. By taking a bird’s eye view on previous conceptualizations of social cohesion we emphasize that in the majority of approaches there is in fact more overlap in the concept than has so far been assumed. In particular, we suggest three essential dimensions of social cohesion: (1) social relations, (2) identification with the geographical unit, and (3) orientation towards the common good. Each dimension is further differentiated into several sub-dimensions. We argue that additional elements identified in the literature (shared values, inequality, quality of life) are rather determinants or consequences of social cohesion, but not constituting elements. Suggestions for future research are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • David Schiefer & Jolanda Noll, 2017. "The Essentials of Social Cohesion: A Literature Review," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 132(2), pages 579-603, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:soinre:v:132:y:2017:i:2:d:10.1007_s11205-016-1314-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s11205-016-1314-5
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