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Trust is an essential component for the functioning and well-being of society. Trust contributes to the stability of the social community and creates a sense of predictability and security among its members. Trust also plays a role in conflict resolution. In societies with high levels of trust, conflicts are often resolved more peacefully through negotiation and dialogue instead of resorting to violence or aggression. Trust is often related to a specific culture or social context. Some social systems or communities may have deeply rooted patterns of trust, while others may be inclined to be sceptical or distrustful of others.
Sociologists have dealt with the concept of trust since the very beginnings of sociology since it is a phenomenon crucial for social solidarity and cohesion. One can recall Durkheim's celebrated phrase that 'in a contract, not everything is contractual' (1984: 158), which states the position that stable collective life must be based on more than calculations of self-interest and that an element of trust is essential for a smooth flow of social interactions.
In a similar manner, Georg Simmel states that without trust, 'society itself would disintegrate' (2004: 177-8). Simmel defines trust when he writes: 'To 'believe in someone', without adding or even conceiving what it is that one believes about him, is to employ a very subtle and profound idiom. It expresses the feeling that there exists between our idea of a being and the being itself a definite connection and unity, a certain consistency in our conception of it, an assurance and lack of resistance in the surrender of the Ego to this conception, which may rest upon particular reasons but is not explained by them' (2004: 178).
As of contemporaries, Francis Fukuyama followed Max Weber in his exposition of trust as the indispensable ingredient of viable economic systems. Diego Gambetta, Piotr Sztompka, Shmuel Eisenstadt, Bernard Barber, and Anthony Giddens can be mentioned, amongst others of the contemporary theoreticians who made trust a central subject of their deliberations.
The concept of social capital, particularly linked to Robert Putnam, highlights the issue of trust in a society. According to Putnam, a society with high diversity tends to have lower trust levels. He particularly highlights ethnic differences as a cause of shaky trust. Inglehart (1997) also suggests that significant societal changes in recent decades have contributed to the decline in trust levels.
Trust is a multi-dimensional concept. Some of the forms of trust relevant to understanding this phenomenon are generalised trust, institutional trust, interpersonal trust, competence trust, reliability trust, reciprocal trust, etc.
Generalised trust, also known as social trust, is a complex phenomenon that refers to the belief or expectation that others, particularly strangers or members of groups beyond one's immediate social circle, will act in a trustworthy, cooperative, and reliable manner. It is a measure of individuals' confidence in the integrity, honesty, and benevolence of others in society, even when they have no personal relationship or direct interaction with them. High levels of generalised trust have been linked to numerous positive outcomes at the societal level, such as economic prosperity, effective governance, social cohesion, and overall well-being.
On the other hand, Institutional trust relates to trust in formal institutions, organisations, or systems, such as governments, corporations, or social institutions. It reflects individuals' confidence in the ability of these institutions to perform their functions and meet their obligations.
Interpersonal trust pertains to trust in individuals within personal relationships, such as friends, family members, or colleagues. It reflects individuals' confidence in the reliability, honesty, and benevolence of individuals with whom they interact directly or indirectly.
In contemporary sociology and social theory, trust is studied in the context of globalisation. Globalisation increases interdependence among individuals, organisations, and nations by facilitating the flow of goods, services, capital, information, and people across borders. Trust becomes essential for effective cooperation and collaboration among diverse actors in this interconnected world. Countries with high levels of trust are often more successful in attracting foreign investment, fostering innovation, and promoting economic growth.
On the other hand, globalisation has been associated with widening economic inequalities within and among countries. The unequal distribution of benefits and opportunities can erode trust in institutions and systems perceived to favour the wealthy and powerful, leading to feelings of resentment, alienation, and social unrest among marginalised groups. The globalisation of markets and production processes can lead to job displacement, particularly in industries vulnerable to outsourcing and automation. Job losses and economic insecurity can undermine trust in governments, corporations, and international trade agreements perceived to prioritise profit over the well-being of workers and communities. Globalisation can also lead to cultural homogenisation that erodes trust in traditional social institutions, cultural identities, and ways of life, leading to feelings of cultural alienation, resentment, and resistance among populations who perceive globalisation as a threat to their cultural heritage and identity.
In summary, trust is a foundational element that underpins social interactions and contributes to society's overall health and functionality. It creates a conducive environment for cooperation, economic prosperity, effective governance, and the well-being of individuals and communities. Building and maintaining trust is an ongoing process that requires open communication, transparency, and a commitment to shared values and norms. (D.G.)