1 minPolitical Concept
Political Concept

Social Cohesion

What is Social Cohesion?

Social cohesion refers to the degree of connectedness and solidarity among groups in society. It implies a sense of shared purpose, common values, and a commitment to mutual support and well-being among members, enabling them to live together peacefully and cooperatively.

Historical Background

The concept has roots in classical sociology (e.g., Durkheim's mechanical and organic solidarity). In modern governance, it became a key objective, especially in diverse societies, to ensure stability, prevent conflict, and foster inclusive development.

Key Points

8 points
  • 1.

    Characterized by strong social bonds, trust, and reciprocity among individuals and groups.

  • 2.

    Involves a sense of belonging and shared identity within a larger community or nation.

  • 3.

    Reduces social fragmentation, polarization, and conflict.

  • 4.

    Promotes equality of opportunity, social justice, and inclusion of all sections of society.

  • 5.

    Facilitates collective action and cooperation for common goals.

  • 6.

    Underpinned by respect for diversity and tolerance towards different groups.

  • 7.

    Influenced by factors like economic inequality, political stability, cultural integration, and institutional fairness.

  • 8.

    Essential for sustainable development, peace, and democratic functioning.

Visual Insights

Factors Influencing Social Cohesion

A mind map illustrating the key factors that influence social cohesion in a society.

Social Cohesion

  • Trust
  • Shared Values
  • Social Participation
  • Equality & Inclusion

Recent Developments

5 developments

Challenges from rising communalism, caste-based discrimination, and regional chauvinism.

Impact of economic disparities and uneven development on social harmony.

Role of digital media in both fostering connections and spreading misinformation leading to division.

Government initiatives promoting inter-faith dialogue and cultural exchange.

Debates on national integration and the balance between diverse identities and a common national identity.

This Concept in News

2 topics

Manipur CM aims to bridge gap between warring communities

20 Feb 2026

This news demonstrates how quickly social cohesion can erode in the face of conflict and displacement. It highlights that social cohesion is not a static state but requires constant effort and maintenance. The news challenges the idea that simply living in the same geographical area guarantees social cohesion. It reveals that deep-seated grievances and historical tensions can undermine even seemingly stable societies. The implications of this news are that governments and communities must proactively address inequalities and promote dialogue to prevent such breakdowns. Understanding social cohesion is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for understanding the root causes of the conflict and identifying potential solutions. Without social cohesion, peace and stability are difficult to achieve.

Reclaiming the Republic: The Importance of Shared Language and Humility

17 Feb 2026

The news underscores that social cohesion is not just about shared identity but also about the *quality* of interaction and communication. (1) It highlights that a lack of shared language and humility can directly erode social cohesion by creating barriers to understanding and fostering animosity. (2) The news applies the concept by showing how political discourse lacking these qualities can lead to polarization and gridlock. (3) It reveals that social cohesion requires active cultivation through conscious efforts to promote empathy and bridge divides. (4) The implications are that neglecting these aspects can lead to a fractured society unable to address its challenges effectively. (5) Understanding social cohesion is crucial for analyzing the news because it provides a framework for assessing the health of a society and identifying potential threats to its stability and well-being. It allows us to understand that a shared language is not just about words, but about a shared understanding and respect.

Source Topic

Reclaiming the Republic: The Importance of Shared Language and Humility

Polity & Governance

UPSC Relevance

Crucial for UPSC GS Paper 1 (Indian Society, Social Issues), GS Paper 2 (Governance, Social Justice), and GS Paper 4 (Ethics - values like tolerance, compassion, integrity). Frequently asked in Mains questions concerning social problems, national integration, and the role of various institutions in maintaining peace and harmony.

Factors Influencing Social Cohesion

A mind map illustrating the key factors that influence social cohesion in a society.

Social Cohesion

Trust in institutions

Respect for diversity

Active involvement in community

Reducing inequality

Connections
TrustShared Values
Shared ValuesSocial Participation
Social ParticipationEquality & Inclusion

This Concept in News

2 news topics

2

Manipur CM aims to bridge gap between warring communities

20 February 2026

This news demonstrates how quickly social cohesion can erode in the face of conflict and displacement. It highlights that social cohesion is not a static state but requires constant effort and maintenance. The news challenges the idea that simply living in the same geographical area guarantees social cohesion. It reveals that deep-seated grievances and historical tensions can undermine even seemingly stable societies. The implications of this news are that governments and communities must proactively address inequalities and promote dialogue to prevent such breakdowns. Understanding social cohesion is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for understanding the root causes of the conflict and identifying potential solutions. Without social cohesion, peace and stability are difficult to achieve.

Reclaiming the Republic: The Importance of Shared Language and Humility

17 February 2026

The news underscores that social cohesion is not just about shared identity but also about the *quality* of interaction and communication. (1) It highlights that a lack of shared language and humility can directly erode social cohesion by creating barriers to understanding and fostering animosity. (2) The news applies the concept by showing how political discourse lacking these qualities can lead to polarization and gridlock. (3) It reveals that social cohesion requires active cultivation through conscious efforts to promote empathy and bridge divides. (4) The implications are that neglecting these aspects can lead to a fractured society unable to address its challenges effectively. (5) Understanding social cohesion is crucial for analyzing the news because it provides a framework for assessing the health of a society and identifying potential threats to its stability and well-being. It allows us to understand that a shared language is not just about words, but about a shared understanding and respect.