The Impact of Virtual Society on Social Capital Formation: A Comparative Analysis of Facebook and WhatsApp

Sajjad Ali, Dake Wang, Talib Hussain and Benqian Li

SAGE Open, 2023, vol. 13, issue 4, 21582440231210077

Abstract: This study aims to investigate the role of virtual society in generating social capital, taking into account the challenges associated with new technologies and social arrangements. The study utilizes descriptive analysis and partial least squares path modeling to analyze participant data. The technology acceptance model is employed to assess perceptions of virtual society platforms, specifically Facebook and WhatsApp, in terms of ease of use and value. he study reveals a significant positive relationship between virtual society and the development of social capital. Positive attitudes toward virtual society platforms are associated with increased social capital, particularly in terms of bridging and bonding. The relationship is moderated by the amount of time spent on social networking sites. Limitations of the study include its focus on specific platforms and reliance on self-reported data. Future research can explore additional platforms and employ diverse data collection methods to enhance the understanding of virtual society and social capital formation. This study emphasizes the importance of online attachment and connection for the formation of social capital. The findings inform policy-making and decision-making in organizations by highlighting the role of virtual society platforms in fostering social capital. This research contributes to the understanding of the relationship between virtual society and social capital, shedding light on collaboration patterns and technology reliance in virtual environments. The study’s originality lies in its examination of Facebook and WhatsApp as platforms and the exploration of the moderation effect of time spent on social networking sites. The findings offer valuable insights for academia and practical applications.

Keywords: social capital; society; virtual society; social media; Facebook; WhatsApp; Smart PLS; SEM (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:sae:sagope:v:13:y:2023:i:4:p:21582440231210077

DOI: 10.1177/21582440231210077

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