Solidarity and Trust-Chalanges of Bosnian Society

The realities of the current state of society in a time of global crisis compels us to recognize how complex networks of interdependent political and economic circumstances, creates multiple pressures on individual human... [ view full abstract ]

The realities of the current state of society in a time of global crisis compels us to recognize how complex networks of interdependent political and economic circumstances, creates multiple pressures on individual human existence. Social solidarity, according to the classical sociological definition from the work of Emil Durkheim, points to its "highly moral value", regardless of whether it is observed at a global or local level. Major changes in this “highly moral value” are largely a reflection of social events. Solidarity and trust were matters of high importance in the theoretical literature of the social sciences in the twentieth century. It is a question that in all cultures, times and circumstances solidarity and trust unquestionably have a pronounced relevance. Civil society depends on the spirit of generalized trust and confidence in the Other (A. Seligman), and only trust and security are essential qualities needed in the world for every human being, especially the basic trust on which Giddens says, as the central element in a complex network of relationships in general society.
Based in the theoretical understandings of solidarity, the author will present the results of research done with students of social work, sociology, communicology, law and economics. The research explores the important question of the extent of solidarity that exists in contemporary Bosnian society. It’s importance lies in how Bosnian society views the constructs of social security and the values underpinning a societal norm of solidarity during a period of economic and organizational crisis based in recent history and the current economic situation. Methodology used is survey and focus groups.
Key words: society, solidarity, trust, moral, values and social security.