Offline and online communities: differences and consequences for social inequalities

Ağlamaz, Fatma Sibel; Rodríguez Menés, Jorge

doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.poetic.2021.101565

Offline and online communities: differences and consequences for social inequalities

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Ağlamaz FS, Rodríguez-Menés J. Offline and online communities: differences and consequences for social inequalities. Poetics. 2021;89:101565. DOI: 10.1016/j.poetic.2021.101565

Abstract

This article explores the relationship between face-to-face and online social life, by developing different constructs for each. The paper investigates if the online and offline forms of social capital mirror each other, and which socio-economic groups have benefitted the most from the digitalization of social life. Using data from a survey carried out in Spain in 2016, the study confirms that social capital is more diversified and instrumental when expressed online than offline. The findings also suggest a widening of the digital gap between generations and socio-economic groups in favour of the younger, the better educated, and the upper classes.