Institute of Sociology of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic

Abstract: This study introduces a simple tool for measuring Bridging Social Capital (referred to as BSC) by means of a battery of questions regarding the differences in the circle of friends. It was first used in the public opinion poll “Our Society 2007-04” (CVVM) and the modified version was employed in the international survey ISSP 2007 “Leisure Time and Sports”. The main purpose of this study is to compare results from both datasets to assess the reliability and validity. For that, we use the intersection of the same items included in both surveys. First, we verify convergent and discriminant validity of this tool using explorative and confirmative factor analysis. The results show that BSC in this case must be considered in two unlike dimensions: different interests/lifestyle and outgroups. Furthermore, we verify the construct validity using structural equation modelling. The starting point is the theoretical model of positive effects of the structural dimension of social capital (diversity in friendship bonding) on its cultural dimension (tolerance and trust). In conclusion, we suggest taking advantage of the BSC battery in subsequent research.