Desenvolvimento regional e mensuração do capital social em três regiões pertencentes a secretarias de desenvolvimento regional do extremo oeste de Santa Catarina

Abstract

The concept of social capital related to the economic development of regions and countries began to gain importance in 1990 with researcher Robert Putnam. Social capital is understood as a characteristic of social organizations, and its main elements trust, norms and networks. Knowledge of these elements and their use can improve the efficiency of society by facilitating coordinated actions. The development of this research was initially inspired by the approaches of Putnam and his work in the regions of Italy. Besides the approach of social capital were analyzed issues related to indicators of local and economic development of the areas surveyed. This study aimed to measure the levels of social capital and development from socio-economic indicators in regions belonging to three Secretaries of Regional Development of the Far West of Santa Catarina. This process occurred by conducting qualitative research in the municipalities belonging to the Regional Offices located in the municipalities of Itapiranga, Sao Miguel West and Dionisio Cerqueira. The choice of these micro-regions for the study took place, not only by the peculiarities of the process of settlement and development of the Far West region of Santa Catarina that confer significant attributes and differentials for the region under consideration, but also because they belong to the same group of municipalities, the Association Cities of the Far West of Santa Catarina (AMEOSC). The choice of this region is also justified by it being part of a regional programs sponsored by the Department of Regional Programmes of the Ministry of National Integration, the Program for Promotion of Development of Border Range (PDFF). The region object of this research study is also understood by the Greater Region of the Great Frontier of Mercosur, which covers 223 cities in the northern Rio Grande do Sul, 131 municipalities in 42 counties west of Santa Catarina and Parana Southwestern. To achieve the purpose of this study, we developed a descriptive research with quantitative character, using the method of survey research. The questionnaire administered to the population observed a sample proportional to the number of inhabitants in each municipality. The data was analyzed statistically by using Factor Analysis, Regression Analysis and Variance Analysis. The survey results show that the goal was reached, since it was possible to visualize the relationship between indicators of regional development and social capital in regions. The capital is greater in societies where there is less inequality in groups and ethnic differences. The equal distribution of income provides a greater harmony and social cohesion. Inequalities diminish the stock of capital, strongly affecting the economy of the population. Culture also has a strong influence in maintaining social cohesion.