| This thesis draws on popular and academic literature to provide a conceptual framework for understanding complementary currencies and their relation to social movements, social capital, economic capital, voluntary simplicity, mindfulness, and subjective well-being. With a sample drawn from complementary currency participants in Calgary, Alberta, Ithaca, New York, and Nelson, British Columbia, purposive, in-person interviews were conducted from 2002 to 2003. Geographic, demographic, univariate, bivariate, and multivariate data analyses were conducted to determine potential relationships between complementary currency participation and social capital, economic capital, and subjective well-being. Social and economic capital are shown to increase as a result of increased complementary currency participation. Attendance at complementary currency events is positively associated with social capital, economic capital, and subjective well-being. Social and economic capital are also positively associated with increased mindfulness. Respondents assert the positive influence of complementary currency participation on their life satisfaction. |
