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Defining Social Cohesion

Author

Listed:
  • Justine Burns:

    (Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, School of Economics, University of Cape Town)

  • George Hull
  • Kate Lefko-Everett
  • Lindokuhle Njozela

Abstract

Promoting social cohesion is one of the most difficult, yet one of the most important, challenges facing South Africa. However, while there is a widespread agreement that social cohesion influences economic and social development, and that nurturing a more cohesive society is an important policy goal in itself, little progress has been made in trying to measure it and track progress in this domain over time. One of the most severe limitations to this progress is the lack of definitional consensus on social cohesion. It may seem intuitive to describe it as the glue that binds us together, or the forging of a common sense of identity and belonging. To others, it may speak to a willingness to extend trust to outsiders, to respect fellow citizens and uphold their dignity, and to be moved to action in the face of persistent inequality on behalf of those who are marginalised. Alternatively, specifically in the South African context, its very essence may be seen as common humanity embodied in the notion of ubuntu.

Suggested Citation

  • Justine Burns: & George Hull & Kate Lefko-Everett & Lindokuhle Njozela, 2018. "Defining Social Cohesion," SALDRU Working Papers 216, Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, University of Cape Town.
    • Handle: RePEc:ldr:wpaper:216
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    File URL: https://www.opensaldru.uct.ac.za/handle/11090/903
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    Keywords

    social cohesion; South Africa;

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