An investigation of alevi civic organizations and activities in turkey as a type of social capital [Bi̇r sosyal sermaye türü olarak türki̇ye'deki̇ alevi̇ sosyal Örgütleri̇ ve faali̇yetleri̇nin i̇ncelenmesi̇]

Abstract

Social capital has become one of the topics largely discussed in social sciences in the last thirty years. Social scientists have described social capital as one of the most important dynamics keeping a society alive. Many concepts were used in the conceptualization of social capital in extant literature. This study investigates the basic elements of social capital such as social network, social solidarity, protection of trust and norms (social control) in Alevi civic organizations. It is used qualitative research methods with purposive sampling, face-to-face interview, content analysis, and observation for data collection. Interviews were conducted with the high level representatives of Alevi civic organizations (federations, foundations and associations) who were participated in the study in Istanbul, Türkey, and content of websites of Alevi civic organizations (37 websites and 224 news) was analyzed. Findings of the study showed that Alevi civic organizations have the most important elements of social capital (social network, social solidarity, protection of trust and norms) and these organizations were organizing activities contributing to the formation of these elements of social capital. Finally, it was understood that how vital functions Alevi civic organizations have in social life.