http://www.mormonlife.com/tag/Social Mormon Life - Social tag http://www.mormonlife.com/story/65407-how-to-torpedo-yourself-at-church http://www.mormonlife.com/story/65407-how-to-torpedo-yourself-at-church Wed, 03 Aug 2011 13:00:00 -0600 <div> source: bycommonconsent.com </div> <i class="ml_blurb">Mormon Life says: Relates "standing at church" to "social capital" a little too much for my taste, but he still makes some good points.</i> I love the notion of “social capital” at Church — building up a reputation as someone trustworthy, reliable, the sort of “good neighbor” reputation that then permits you to act as you please [1]. People with large amounts of social capital in their wards can say controversial things or act crazily (blue shirts! Pantsuits!) without fear of being marginalized. Attempt those tasks without a good buildup of social capital, and heaven help you. Once people know that you’re fundamentally a good person and worth of trust, you can get away with all sorts of antics [2]. <P> However, much of the building of social capital has to do with initial positioning in the ward. As a new arrival, the heat is on — you’d better not make any false steps in building your reputation, or you’ll never gain the respect and admiration of your elder’s quorum. Let’s consider a few common pitfalls.</P>