Robert Putnam believed deeply in the concept of “social capital” being crucial to the effectiveness and survival of cities. In “Bowling Alone: America’s Declining Social Capital”, Putnam describes social capital as “features of social organization such as networks, norms, and social trust that facilitate cooridination and cooperation for mutual benefit.” Putnam emphasized the extreme importance of civic and social participation by the community, and was concerned over the growing depletion of this social capital here in the U.S. Americans’ participation in voting, social organizations, church and community activities, and even relationships of every kind seems to be continually unravelling and decreasing steadily, year after year. Putnam points to mobility and more migration around the country, demographic changes, lack of trust of neighbors and people in general, and “the technological transformation of leisure” with things like TV and the internet, as possible causes to the weakening of social capital. He also points out though, that “the most fundamental form of social capital is the family” and views the erosion of family relationships, due to divorce and mothers joining the workforce, at the center of what may be causing this national crisis. As to how this diminishing civic envolvement could be stopped, Robert Putnam stresses that more comprehensive research must be done and answer crucial questions about the changes in our society and how to regain this social capital. Putnam suggests possible forms of electronic networks for social capital and development of the capital in the workplace as well, as well as focusing on what public policies may be infringing on Americans’ participation in their country.
So, is social capital in post-Katrina New Orleans on the decline? That is a very difficult question to answer. Depending on what part of the city you live in, and how badly you were affected by the storm and its aftermath, it may present several diverse views on whether social capital is on the decline or rise in New Orleans. In some parts of the greater New Orleans area, there seems to be no social capital whatsoever, such as parts of New Orleans east and the lower 9th ward, along with many other storm ravaged areas, are seemingly an abandoned ghost town. However, overall, I would say there has been a definite surge in civic engagement and participation in New Orleans since August 29, 2005. In several parts of the city, there is a definite social capital that has been thrust upon the citizens. Thousands of residents who decided not to simply pack up and leave the Big Easy, have been forced to attend town hall meetings, join community activist groups, and take a very active roll in their neighborhoods to ensure their homes are rebuilt.
One way this social capital trend can be actively seen in affecting the city is in our elected officials. New Orleanians were more cynical and skeptical of politicians than ever before following Hurricane Katrina. The lawmakers on every level of government knew, that if they wanted to keep their jobs, as well as their heads, their policies and responsiveness would need to change. Sure enough, federal, state, and local officials all planned together to ensure a better outcome if another storm were to hit. In Spetember of this year, almost three years exactly to the day of Katrina, Gustav hit Louisiana and the government put its new plan into effect. Gustav did indeed do some damage to Grand Isle, and other parts of Houma and Terrebone parishes, however the government’s evacuation and clean up plans were rather effective. This combined effort of all government officials, as well as the citizens participation in these plans, shows the increase and importance of social capital in New Orleans.
This increase of social capital is even more evident in the post-Katrina culture we see in our city today. People have seemed to have bonded closer together, and see the need to take and respond to civic actions. Perhaps it was because they needed to in order for government of every level to hear their collective voice, or maybe neighbors feel more like family after they’ve gone through such harsh times together. Whatever the cause, the effect is quite visible. For example, Mardi Gras floats and costumes still parody the situation surrounding the storm and the government officials involved. Restaurants have special dishes named after Katrina and its aftermath, while bars around town have potent concoctions of various liquors named after or referring to the infamous storm. Jokes, stories, and anecdotes abound from the locals, as they seem much more cynical of government and much more committed to their home town. Following the events of 9/11, many described a palpable bond between New Yorkers of every size, race, and religion. New Orleans is no different. Katrina broke our levees, but in doing so, has apparently stenthened our bond as New Orleanians.
In conclusion, the concept of social capital helps our understanding of post-Katrina New Orleans in that it makes us see the incredible importance of everyone participating and getting involved with your community. If someone wasn’t pleased with how the officials in office responded, they may now realize the importance of voting. If someone was concerned about a loved one left to fend off the flood waters, they may know realize the importance of family bonds. Social capital is a primary and crucial concept that is needed to ensure that the failures in the aftermath of the storm will not happen again. Social capital makes for a better community, city, and country. Here’s to you Mr. Putnam! Here’s to you!
