Sociology News

Paxton's trust research featured in Greater Good Magazine

Professor Pam Paxton, along with the senior editor of Greater Good Magazine, Jeremy Smith consider trust the key to a healthy society, but note that it has been on the decline for some time. The authors identify steps that institutions can take to inspire trust among constituents. For example, government protection of minority rights through voting protections and antidiscrimination policies can facilitate trust and cooperation among citizens. Another way to rebuild trust is to form bridges between groups. Paxton finds that membership organizations that segregate themselves from others erode trust in their societies. In contrast, nations with a range of membership organizations that come together to reach common goals or close social divides have higher levels of overall trust among citizens. Check out the article, “America's Trust Fall,” found in the Fall 2008 issue of Greater Good Magazine (Vol. 5 No. 2: pp 14-17).

Back   12.11.2008