Examining commitment heterogeneity and social capital within the membership base of agricultural cooperatives

This academic paper examines how differences in member commitment and social capital influence collective action within agricultural cooperatives. Using New Zealand cooperatives as the empirical context, the research explores how heterogeneity among members can affect participation, governance, and long-term cooperative performance.

The paper contributes to international cooperative scholarship by providing evidence from one of the world’s most cooperative-intensive economies.

Research at a glance

• Authors: Garnevska, Shadbolt, Apparao. 

• Year: 2019 

• Publication: Journal of Co-operative Organization and Management 7 (2019) 42–50

• Focus: Member commitment, social capital, collective action 

• Geographic scope: New Zealand 

• Format: Peer-reviewed journal article (PDF) 

Why this research matters

Member commitment and trust are central to cooperative success, particularly in large and complex agricultural cooperatives. This research provides empirical insight into how internal diversity among members can both strengthen and challenge cooperative governance.

For New Zealand audiences, the paper offers academically grounded evidence that supports ongoing conversations about cooperative design, member engagement, and long-term resilience.

Key themes explored

• Social capital within cooperative membership bases

• Heterogeneity of member commitment

• Implications for collective action and governance

• Cooperative performance in agricultural settings

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