Analyzing the Impact of Economic Capital on Social Tolerance in Isfahan Province: The Mediating Role of Perceived Financial Security, Social Anomie, and Relative Deprivation

In today’s world, social tolerance is regarded as a vital prerequisite for the development of peaceful relations within societies. This study aims to analyze the impact of economic capital on social tolerance in Isfahan Province, with particular emphasis on the mediating roles of perceived financial security, perceived social anomie, and perceived relative deprivation. The research adopts a quantitative approach with a descriptive–correlational design and is conducted using a survey method. The statistical population consists of citizens aged 18 years and older in Isfahan Province, from whom a sample of 384 respondents was selected through multistage cluster sampling. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS and AMOS software. The findings indicate that economic capital has a direct and significant effect on social tolerance (β = 0.46). Moreover, economic capital indirectly affects social tolerance by enhancing perceived financial security (indirect effect = 0.38), reducing perceived social anomie (indirect effect = 0.13), and decreasing perceived relative deprivation (indirect effect = 0.19). These results are consistent with the theoretical perspectives of Pierre Bourdieu, Émile Durkheim, Robert K. Merton, Ted Gurr, and Walter Runciman. Overall, the findings demonstrate that higher levels of economic capital are associated with improved financial security, lower perceptions of social anomie, and reduced feelings of relative deprivation, which ultimately contribute to increased social tolerance. This study highlights the crucial role of economic capital in promoting social tolerance, both directly and indirectly through key mediating variables. Enhancing economic capital and ensuring a more equitable distribution of resources can improve financial security, reduce social anomie and relative deprivation, and ultimately foster greater social tolerance. These findings underscore the importance of economic and social policies aimed at reducing inequality and improving overall economic conditions.