Neighborhood Matters: The Impact of Resources on Online Participation of Warsaw Residents
Neighborhood Matters: The Impact of Resources on Online Participation of Warsaw Residents

Summary/Abstract: This study examines the relationship between individual social capital and online participation in neighborhood of residents in a metropolitan city. Based on quantitative data collected through a modified version of the Resource Generator questionnaire among 9 063 residents of Warsaw, the impact of resources embedded in personal networks on online discussions on local issues is evaluated. It is found that resources in personal networks, perceived by respondents as embedded but not mobilizable, negatively influence online talks focus on neighborhood. However, this impact turns into positive when they are able to mobilize resources available through social ties. Although some scholars suggest that social capital in the neighborhood declines, this study shows that neighbors remain considerable source of mobilizable resources affecting online discussions on local issues. Moreover, it is established that fact of being raised indigenously, relations with neighbors and trust in them may encourage urban residents to participate in neighborhood by discussing local issues online.

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