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Networks of Relations and Social Capital

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  • Spagnolo, Giancarlo
  • Lippert, Steffen

Abstract

We model networks of relational (or implicit) contracts, exploring how sanctioning power and equilibrium conditions change under different network configurations and information transmission technologies. In our model relations are the links, and the value of the network lies in its ability to enforce cooperative agreements that could not be sustained if agents had no access to other network members? sanctioning power and information. We identify conditions for network stability and in-network information transmission as well as conditions under which stable sub-networks inhibit more valuable larger networks. The model provides formal definitions for individual and communities? ?social capital? in the spirit of Coleman and Putnam.

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  • Spagnolo, Giancarlo & Lippert, Steffen, 2005. "Networks of Relations and Social Capital," CEPR Discussion Papers 5078, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:5078
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Networks; Relational contracts; Implicit contracts; Industrial districts; Indirect multimarket contact; Cooperation; Collusion; Social capital; Social relations; Embeddedness;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D23 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Organizational Behavior; Transaction Costs; Property Rights
    • D43 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Oligopoly and Other Forms of Market Imperfection
    • L13 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Oligopoly and Other Imperfect Markets
    • L29 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Other
    • O17 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Formal and Informal Sectors; Shadow Economy; Institutional Arrangements

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