This allows for identifying specific strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in social progress across different countries and societies.
There are several key aspects and types of social cohesion to consider:
Shared values
Vertical and horizontal dimensions:
Vertical: Relations between individuals/groups and institutions/state
Horizontal: Relations among members of society
The conceptualizes social cohesion as having three main pillars:
-Social capital (trust, civic engagement, social norms)
-Social inclusion (addressing social justice & inequality)
-Social mobility (ability to change one's position in society)
Levels of analysis: Social cohesion can be examined at different levels: Micro (individual) Meso (community, group). Macro (societal, national)
-Objective vs. subjective measures: Social cohesion incorporates both objective indicators (economic inequality) and subjective perceptions (sense of belonging).
-Types of cohesion: Cultural/historical: Based on shared norms, trust, and belonging developed over time. Functional: Arising from networks of interactions and interdependencies (economic exchanges)
-Group cohesion: In smaller group contexts, cohesion can be driven by: Common purpose magnetism,
Interpersonal factors
-Commensality as a form of social cohesion: Shared opinions can both strengthen internal solidarity and reinforce group boundaries and hierarchies.
-Policy relevance: Social cohesion is increasingly seen as important for societal well-being, resilience, and economic growth.
-Dynamic nature: Social cohesion is often described as an ongoing process rather than a static state, requiring continuous effort to maintain and strengthen.
-Understanding these different aspects and types of social cohesion can help in developing more comprehensive approaches to measuring, analyzing, and fostering cohesion in various social contexts.
Key aspects of the Social Progress Index approach: Focus on outcomes rather than inputs - measures actual results achieved in society, not just effort or spending.
-Excludes economic indicators - it allows analysis of the relationship between economic and social development.
Holistic measure -it aims to capture many aspects of societal health and social justice.
Actionable - designed to be a practical tool for leaders to implement policies and programs.
Granular - measure specific areas that can be directly implemented.
The index defines social progress as "the capacity of a society to meet the basic human needs of its citizens, establish the building blocks that allow citizens and communities to enhance and sustain the quality of their lives, and create the conditions for all individuals to reach their full potential." By measuring these various dimensions, the Social Progress Index provides a comprehensive view of factors contributing to societal advancement beyond just economic measures. This allows for identifying specific strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in social progress across different countries and societies.
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