Final answer:
The correct option is b). A downside of social capital occurs when it is used for personal interests that clash with organizational goals, undermining trust and resources, and potentially affecting fairness in opportunities and organizational integrity.
Step-by-step explanation:
A potential downside of social capital can arise when an individual uses the contacts they develop to pursue their own interests and agendas that may be inconsistent with the organization's objectives. Social capital refers to the collective value of all 'social networks' and the inclinations that arise from these networks to do things for each other — it includes networks of individuals, a sense of larger community membership, the collective good, a willingness to help others, and the ability to trust and collaborate on problem-solving. However, when leveraged solely for individual gain or personal agendas, especially those not aligned with organizational goals, it can lead to negative consequences within an organization.
Using social capital in such a way can have serious implications, potentially undermining trust, distorting communication channels, and diverting resources away from intended purposes. Examining this issue from a sociological perspective highlights how the accumulation and mobilization of social capital play a critical role in various societal and organizational dynamics. For example, in the context of higher education and employment, individuals who have access to advantageous social capital through networks in elite schools or professional environments can secure better opportunities, which may ultimately affect the organization's objectives and fairness within hiring processes.