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The UK government has identified faith communities as important sources of 'social capital' in community development and regeneration. But religion is also associated with conflict and division. How far is this faith in 'faith' justified? And how far should faith communities comply? This report assesses the debate and the evidence, and summarizes the controversies surrounding the idea of 'social capital' and the place of 'faith' in community policy; assesses the contribution of faith communities to social capital that extends beyond bonding to build bridges and links with others in civil society; and identifies policy and practice implications for secular and faith organizations and networks. The research encompasses five major faith traditions across four British regions. It explores the nature and the quality of social capital stemming from faith buildings, association, engagement with governance, and participation in the wider public domain. (REPORT)
About the author
Robert Furbey teaches urban sociology at Sheffield Hallam University where he contributes to the work of the Centre for Regional and Economic Social Research. Adam Dinham lectures and researches in social policy at Anglia Ruskin University. Richard Farnell teaches urban planning and regeneration at Coventry University, where he also contributes to the work of the Centre for Local Economic Development. Doreen Finneron is Executive Director of the Faith-Based Regeneration Network. Guy Wilkinson is National Inter Faith Relations Adviser and Secretary for Inter Faith Relations to the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Summary
The UK government has identified Faith communities as important players in community development and regeneration. But religion is also associated with conflict and division. How far is this faith in 'Faith' justified? How far should Faith communities comply? This report assesses the debate and the evidence. Free PDF available at www.jrf.org.uk
