Social networks carry productive economic value like physical tools and education do

Evidence

By analogy with notions of physical capital and human capital—tools and training that enhance individual productivity—the core idea of social capital theory is that social networks have value. Just as a screwdriver (physical capital) or a college education (human capital) can increase productivity (both individual and collective), so too social contacts affect the productivity of individuals and groups. — Robert D. Putnam, Bowling Alone The Collapse and Revival…, 33

Categorization

• DEFINE: Establishes the core social-capital definition as an analogy to physical and human capital, which the reader’s whole inquiry rests on.
• XREF: connects to: Social networks themselves constitute capital with measurable productive value — Robert D. Putnam, Bowling Alone The Collapse and Revival…, 33; Social capital is productive, structural, and defined by its function.; Existing social capital is a prerequisite for effective online interaction — Robert D. Putnam, Bowling Alone The Collapse and Revival…, 586

Broader Connections

• Social networks themselves constitute capital with measurable productive value #corroborates (0.95) — Robert D. Putnam, Bowling Alone The Collapse and Revival…, 33
• Social capital is productive, structural, and defined by its function. #expands (0.85)
• Existing social capital is a prerequisite for effective online interaction #qualifies (0.75) — Robert D. Putnam, Bowling Alone The Collapse and Revival…, 586