The concept of 'social capital' has gained significant traction in sociological research, referring to the networks of relationships among people who live and work in a particular society, enabling that society to function effectively. Unlike physical capital (tools, machinery) or human capital (education, skills), social capital is embedded in the structure of social relations. Recent studies suggest that high levels of social capital correlate with lower crime rates, better public health, and more efficient governance. However, critics argue that social capital can have a 'dark side,' as tightly knit communities may exclude outsiders or enforce conformity, hindering innovation and individual freedom. This dual nature implies that the benefits of social capital are not unconditional but depend on the inclusiveness and openness of the networks involved.
❓ Theo đoạn văn, một hạn chế chính của vốn xã hội là gì?
A. A. Nó đòi hỏi mức vốn vật chất cao để có hiệu quả.
B. B. Điều này có thể dẫn đến việc loại trừ những người bên ngoài và kìm hãm sự đổi mới.
C. C. Trong các xã hội hiện đại, nó ít quan trọng hơn vốn con người.
D. D. Nó chỉ hoạt động hiệu quả trong các cộng đồng nhỏ, đồng nhất.
✅ 正确答案
B. It may lead to exclusion of outsiders and stifle innovation.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first