CEU eTD Collection (2016); Magalhaes Teixeira, Marcio: Dimensions of social capital and homicide rates in Brazilian municipalities

CEU Electronic Theses and Dissertations, 2016
Author Magalhaes Teixeira, Marcio
Title Dimensions of social capital and homicide rates in Brazilian municipalities
Summary Based on a measure of social participation and political interest, derived from the concept of social capital, this study empirically investigates the relation between civil associations and homicides rates in Brazilian municipalities. Using data from the social-economic survey filled in by the candidates of the High School National Examination, known by its Portuguese language acronym ENEM, this study checks if municipalities with bigger frequency of social activities have a tendency to present lower homicide rates and if participation in different types of social activities impacts differently on homicide. Complementarily, the study checks if municipalities with citizens that declared higher levels of political interest have a tendency to present lower homicides rates. Based on linear regression models, the investigation controls for demographic and economic aspects. Data analysis shows positive relation between homicide rate and social participation as well with political interest. Additionally, different types of social participation influences differently in homicide. The result seems to contradict the dominant theoretical approach and underscore the need for further investigation considering the reciprocal relations that homicide might have with social capital. Finally, the research set the bases for further investigations that might help to cast light over the complex phenomenon of violence using Brazil as a study case.
Supervisor Svensson, Sara; Kissack, Robert
Department School of Public Policy MA
Full texthttps://www.etd.ceu.edu/2016/teixeira_marcio.pdf

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