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Title: The well-being of nations: the role of human and social capital -[Text]

Notes: In a rapidly changing world, the success of nations, communities and individuals may be linked more than ever before, to how they adapt to change, learn and share knowledge. The purpose of this report is threefold: i) to describe the latest evidence covering investment in human capital and its impact on growth and well-being; ii) to describe and clarify the more novel concept of social capital; and iii) to identify the roles of human and social capital in realising sustainable economic and social development. It also builds on the 1998 OECD report, Human Capital Investment - An International Comparison. Chapter 1 outlines the key concerns, trends, concepts and relationships discussed in the report as well as the main questions to be addressed. Chapter 2 considers the definition and measurement of human capital, covering all types of skills and attributes embodied in individuals relevant to well-being. The sources of human capital in families, schools, communities and workplaces are discussed especially in relation to the distribution of learning opportunities and outcomes across different groups. The chapter also assesses the empirical evidence for the impact of human capital on the economy and society. Chapter 3 addresses the conceptual and measurement framework for social capital, examining its sources and impacts on a broad range of possible outcomes. The potential for complementarity between human and social capital, both from a conceptual and empirical standpoint, is discussed. Chapter 4 addresses some basic questions about the implications for public policy of the preceding analyses of human and social capital and identifies further research and data needs at the international level. A key consideration is that many actors are involved in promoting and harnessing high-quality investments in organisations, communities and people.`

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