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Trust in a changing world: Social cohesion and the social contract in uncertain times

Author

Listed:
  • Patricia Justino
  • Melissa Samarin

Abstract

This paper examines the erosion of trust as a global phenomenon, highlighting its implications for social cohesion and governance. Using data from the World Values Survey and regional barometers, the analysis focuses on trust's dual dimensions—interpersonal and institutional—within different socio-economic and geopolitical contexts. Results show a sharp decline in institutional trust worldwide, coupled with a mixed trajectory for interpersonal trust.

Suggested Citation

  • Patricia Justino & Melissa Samarin, 2025. "Trust in a changing world: Social cohesion and the social contract in uncertain times," WIDER Working Paper Series wp-2025-34, World Institute for Development Economic Research (UNU-WIDER).
    • Handle: RePEc:unu:wpaper:wp-2025-34
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    File URL: https://www.wider.unu.edu/sites/default/files/Publications/Working-paper/PDF/wp2025-34-trust-changing-world.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Carlin, Ryan E. & Love, Gregory J., 2018. "Political Competition, Partisanship and Interpersonal Trust in Electoral Democracies," British Journal of Political Science, Cambridge University Press, vol. 48(1), pages 115-139, January.
    2. Ellen Quintelier & Jan W. Deth, 2014. "Supporting Democracy: Political Participation and Political Attitudes. Exploring Causality Using Panel Data," Political Studies, Political Studies Association, vol. 62, pages 153-171, April.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Trust; Social cohesion; Governance; Social contract;
    All these keywords.

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