City scores high for social cohesion

Shanghai has a relatively high level of social cohesion, similar to that in developed countries such as the UK, France, Belgium and Spain, according to a recent book published by the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences.

Social cohesion is measured by a number of factors including trust in society, trust in policies, unity, respect for rules, social networks, social inclusiveness and recognition of social status.

The book, "Social cohesion: global perspective and domestic exploration," says Shanghai is in the middle of a five-level ranking, and in the same category as developed countries in central Europe.

Shanghai scored higher in trust in society, trust in policies, unity and respect for rules, but was lower than most developed areas in social networks, social inclusiveness and recognition of social status.

It also found that people with higher social status had more participation in social affairs, but tended to have lower trust in society.

The book, which took three years for researchers to compile, was part of the academic achievements to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences.