Social capital provides a number of benefits during crisis scenarios, and high social capital
communities respond more efficaciously than those with low social capital. With this in mind,
we argue that the response to and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic may be hampered
in many American communities by deficiencies or disruptions in social capital brought about
by physical distancing. Drawing on evidence from past crises, we recommend individuals,
communities, and government institutions work to strengthen and expand social networks. A …