Are Some Social Ties Better Than Others?

September 06, 2017

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September 6, 2017

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Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art... It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival.

- C.S. Lewis -

Are Some Social Ties Better Than Others?

Social capital, or the benefits we get from relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and others, is an important measure of how we give and receive. From online exchanges to intimate gatherings, our connections span a wide range of closeness, each offering different challenges and rewards. Are some relationships better for us than others? Perhaps, but research suggests that having relationships in a variety of different contexts may be most beneficial for our well-being. Rather than dismissing certain types of relationships as trivial or even harmful, it's helpful to examine their advantages and shortcomings in the context of what it is we're seeking. Continue reading to learn more about online contacts, professional networks, close friends, and significant others, and how each can offer meaningful ways of providing for our own needs as well as others'. { read more }