Economists traditionally claim that free markets are the key to prosperity. Now many are coming to realize the importance of the social relationships that underpin all human activities--including the marketplace.

Drawing on an array of new economic studies, this book explains the concept of social cohesion and explores its impact on economic performance. It includes case studies linking social cohesion to workplace productivity, school quality, health and the welfare of children. Later chapters examine the origin of social cohesion and the factors that favour or diminish it, with special attention to the fate of social cohesion in the globalizing world.

Social Cohesion and Economic Prosperity examines our increasingly frayed social fabric and explores ways in which an emphasis on social cohesion can promote a happier and more prosperous society.