Assessing the function of social capital in urban textures using Analysis Hierarchy process (A Case study of Zanjan city)

Identifying and measuring different aspects of social capital in urban quarter lead to a better understanding of the differences among urban system elements (urban neighbourhood). This point will make the planning process according to system differences. In this paper, different aspects of social capital (social awareness, civic participation, social trust and social cohesion) in three neighborhoods of Zanjan including old (Dabbagha), new (Gaem) and informal settlement (Trans) are discussed. These areas have different geographic structure and comparative measure of social capital is used. The methodology of the research is based on analytical - explanatory approach. The data was collected by a field survey and the secondary documents. The results from applying analysis hierarchical process model (AHP) showed that although old and informal areas have numerous problems, their social capital, particularly social capital within a quarter, is higher than the social capital of new neighborhood. This privilege can be considered as a potential capacity to promote their life quality.