Symbiotic Community and Social Capital (SC): Focusing on NPO as Bridging SC

Abstract

NPO as bridging social capital (SC) is a social sector for sustainable development of local communities. The purpose of this study is to discuss Japan's recent policy agenda: symbiotic communities and comprehensive care system focusing on SC and to provide a vision on sustainable local communities from the viewpoint of social welfare. First, the author summarizes Japan's recent policy development surrounding "symbiotic community" and "comprehensive care system". Next, the author introduces the results of quantitative survey analyzing the bonding SC and the bridging SC, both of which are effective for care-need prevention and child-rearing support in comprehensive care system. Further, the author presents two successful cases of sustainable community development in Shimane prefecture, mountainous areas, focusing on bonding and bridging SC. Finally, the author introduces the perception of AI among local residents about the possibility of replacing the work of volunteers and role of local government with AI. In conclusion, the author proposes an ideal form of SC to support local communities in a sustainable manner.