Trust

In general, trust refers to an aspect of a relationship between two parties, by which a given situation is mutually understood, and commitments are made toward actions in favor of a desired outcome. In contrast with hope, trust is almost strictly interpersonal. In contrast with faith, trust is almost always considered a subordinate material form whereas "faith" is typically reserved for a "higher power" — God, etc.

Sociology

• In sociology, trust is the willing acceptance of one person's power to affect another. It is discussed more formally in the articles on social capital, profession and authority. There is much dispute on whether degrees of trust can be measured, or whether it simply exists until there is doubt. See ethics and meta-ethics for more on these abstract questions. There is also much dispute about how lying, blaming and hypocrisy interact with trust. See also distrust.