An Examination of the Relationship Between Social Trust and Functional Democracy: A Correlational Study

Date

2024-04

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Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this quantitative study was to examine the relationship between various components of trust within societies and the functionality of democratic governance. Theoretical Framework. The framework of this study incorporated several research theories, which notably include Lipset’s (1959) modernization theory, Rustow’s (1970) strategic theory, Moore’s (1966) social forces theory, which, when combined with Wang’s (2008) theory of requisite social values give reason to question both the validity and universal applicability of the latter’s values-based theory related to determinants of democratization. Methodology. A quantitative analysis was done by using data from the World Value Survey and the Varieties of Democracy Index, from which a backward elimination regression was completed to determine whether a statistically significant model based on the social values theory of Wang (2008) can be applied universally. The researcher chose to examine this theory by studying trust as a potentially significant social value necessary for democratization based on its significance in previous theories within the field. Findings. The data indicated that certain aspects of trust show a significant correlative relationship with the reality of functional democracy within specific spheres of trust. The study demonstrates that the trust between individuals across geographical distance relates to a nation’s ability to functional democracy, and higher levels of localized trust relate to lower democratic function, and transnational trust relating to higher democratic function. Conclusions and Recommendations. The framework of using data on social values to better understand social systems remains understudied. Further research in the fashion of this study could include an expansion of social values outside of trust to continue developing an understanding of other social values that are beneficial, if not necessary, for the adoption of democracy to take root.

Description

A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Doctor of Public Administration

Keywords

SOCIAL SCIENCES::Social sciences::Political science

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