Sociability networks of migrant youngsters: The case of Dutch Hindustanis

Abstract

This article introduces the concept of sociability as an alternative to social capital theories in understanding the expansion of ethnic networks of Dutch Hindustani youngsters. The author argues that the concept of sociability, launched by Simmel and characterized by joy, relief and vivacity, captures these networks better than theories of social capital because they presume rationality and exchange. While sociability appears to be a useful alternative, it lacks specification of the preconditions and the relational glue. It is argued that for sociability relations to emerge, agency is required as well as a common ethnic content, including Indian Bollywood cinema culture. Finally, the author emphasizes that the increased bonding is by no means exclusive to Hindustani youngsters as their peers in other ethnic communities meet both preconditions that enable them to expand community networks. Therefore, the process addressed in this article has a much wider relevance.