From the Scrum to the Chamber: Social Capital, Public Confidence, and the Parliamentarian’s Dilemma

Abstract

This study identifies parliamentary relationships as among the key factors influencing the success or failure of the institution. The degree of public confidence and respect directed towards MPs reflects to some extent the expressions of friendship and courtesy, or hostility and contempt, that New Zealand’s MPs display towards one anothe R. This article, applying Robert Putnam’s concept of social capital to the New Zealand House of Representatives, shows that the values associated with social capital, such as respect and trust and reciprocity, are precisely those needed to move Parliament closer to the more consensus-based, friendlier institution sought by the proponents of electoral reform. At the same time, the article (drawing, in part, on the logic of collective action dilemmas) notes the obstacles in the way of building social capital in the House, but concludes by suggesting steps that may be taken to bring about a more productive, harmonious and publicly respected legislative institution.

• Social capital
• Parliament
• New Zealand politics