Creating Social Capital in Russia: The Novgorod Model

Abstract

The Novgorod region of Russia displays high levels of economic performance, trust in government, and associational activity—three common indicators of high levels of social capital. This paper traces the high level of social capital in the region to local government's efforts to promote an historical image of Novgorod as a vibrant mercantile democracy, and argues that local government policies have contributed to the rapid development of social capital in the region. The region's success shows that, even in the absence of a national consensus, local governments can do much to establish common social values and priorities for their communities.