Bizalom

Bizalom is a Hungarian noun meaning trust or confidence. It describes a belief that another person, a group, an institution, or a system will act in a reliable, favourable, or predictable way. The term is used in everyday language as well as in the social sciences. Its etymology derives from the verb bízni (to trust) and the noun-forming suffix -alom, forming a concept of trust or reliance.

In psychology and organizational theory, trust is often defined as a willingness to be vulnerable based on positive expectations of the others' actions. A common model outlines three key components: ability (competence), benevolence ( goodwill ), and integrity (adherence to acceptable principles). In trust research, trust is typically considered a relation between a trustor and a trustee under conditions of risk.

In society, trust functions as social capital, reducing perceived risk and transaction costs and facilitating cooperation, coordination, and institutional functioning. Trust levels are shaped by culture, history, and institutions, and they can evolve through repeated interactions, transparency, and accountability. Low trust or betrayal can lead to withdrawal, sanctions, or reforms.

Measurement of bizalom often uses surveys asking about interpersonal trust, trust in public institutions, or trust in media and business leaders. In Hungarian discourse, the term is closely related to concepts such as megbízhatóság (reliability) and hitelesség (credibility), and it features prominently in discussions of governance, corruption, and social cohesion.