- 1/29 -
Market Analysis of „Social Network Analysis“ Books
Ines Mergel Marin Hennig
Harvard University
ines_mergel@harvard.edu Humboldt-University Berlin
mhennig@rz.hu-berlin.de
PNG Working Paper No. PNG06-003(a)*
Keywords:
Social network analysis, market overview, workbooks, didactic and content analysis Abstract:
We conducted a market analysis of existing books on social network analysis as a basis for a grant proposal submitted to the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft - DFG) in November 2006. The results of this analysis are included in this working paper format and open for discussion. We are eager to learn about alternative interpretation(s) or analysis dimensions and will be (are) happy to update this paper as soon as we receive valid comments or requests for changes.
Kennedy School of Government Harvard University Cambridge, MA 02138
* German version PNG Working Paper No. PNG06-003(b)
1. Goals
Social network research and consequently social network analysis is a growing methodological research area, that is gaining impact and attention as an acclaimed social science research methodology. Much of current theory discussion, but also empirical research questions, are focusing on the individual as well as the conditions and consequences that underlie human behavior and interactions with other actors.
Even though we noticed that there were a lot of publications covering the various aspects of social network analysis approaches and procedure, the network analysis is still inaccessible for most researchers. It seems to us that there is still a lot of ground to cover when it actually comes to the explaining part of how to actually conduct a social network analysis. Practical research is still focusing on textbooks, which only cover methodological or mathematical aspects. Moreover, it seems to be difficult to find technical and practical instructions on how to use the network analysis software programs and how to use them within the network analysis research process.
Therefore, the following market analysis of existing textbooks on social network analysis aims to give an overview of the type of books which exist on the market and what their specific focus will be. We seek to understand how the books contribute to convey information and knowledge to academics and professionals without any previous knowledge about social network analysis. We do not seek to evaluate the existing textbooks covering this subject. On the contrary, we understand our assessment as a benchmark study to give an overview of what textbooks are offered and what textbooks are desirable to have.
We try to supply a guide in order to give beginners guidance about the kind of information regarding social network analysis on the basis of our categorization scheme.
This might help people find the right literature for their individual purposes. For authors of future textbooks on network analysis, the market analysis might help them because the analysis gives an overview of shortcomings in the literature when it comes to network analytical concepts and methods. The analysis only includes English and German textbooks†
† Both authors are German native speakers.
2. Methodology
Using online libraries and online bookstores, we identified 14 books that were highest ranked and included them in our analysis. To support the importance and relevance of our list, we looked at different syllabi of network researchers and their recommended readings. Results are shown in the synopsis of chapter 4. The overview shows the books that are classified into analysis categories, which are type of publication, didactical composition and data analysis software.
3. Dimensions
We derived a list of dimensions from the table of contents to be able to categorize the chosen books. This list was extended during the course of our research in addition to the content areas by dimensions such as data analysis software and didactical composition.
First, we differentiated the list of books by their type of publication. Thereby we decided to differentiate the four main publication types into: Introductory text, edited volume, workbook and handbook.
o Workbook: Course book that covers main topics and important theories, classic results and methods of a research field. Usually this is a very compact and dense presentation of the content;
o Edited Volume: Different authors contribute a text, which focuses on one common area of interest and is usually edited by two or more lead authors. The contributing authors will follow a common set of guidelines, but are free in their content. They write their texts to show, for example, applications of social network analysis in their specific content domains;
o Introductory Text: Methods are explained in more detail and practical applications are displayed by using real life examples. Usually, introductory texts are not making use of exercises, summaries or glossaries;
o Handbook: Selected topics are presented and the methodological proceedings are shown step by step. The focus is laid on the scientific insights with respect to one specific method.
After we were able to categorize the books by their type of documentation, the question that arises here is: How to systematize the books by their didactical format? We looked for instructions and assignments on how to analyze social networks, definitions of
learning targets, examples for methods, models, concepts, exercises to strengthen the competences, chapter summaries, and references to additional literature.-
Moreover, we categorized the books by their conceptualization level: do the authors include different network types, empirical evidence, or any other classification attributes?
• Static networks: include network measures that estimate quantitative attributes of network structures.
• Dynamic networks: include quantitative and qualitative changes in social networks.
• Empirical quantitative methods: with the help of empirical evidence quantitative methods are demonstrated to measure and to analyze social networks
• Empirical qualitative methods: Empirical evidence is provided to demonstrate qualitative approaches to collect measures and to analyze social networks.
• Ego-centric network types: Measurement and analysis of social networks focused on ego-centric networks, where the analysis looks at the connections of a focal actor to his/her surrounding alters.
• Whole network approaches: For a predefined network, the relationships of each actor within the overall network respectively to all other actors are collected and analyzed.
Another dimension for the analysis of the books selected is the demonstration of software for social network analysis. We focused on the three main software applications used (Ucinet, Pajek, und SPSS/Stata) and therefore we summarized all additional tools with a far lower significance into the category „Others“.
The last group of categories includes the content covered in the books selected. We included the following content areas: social science theories, social capital/social structure, rational choice, definition of network theories such as relationship, roles/positions, centrality/equivalence/cohesion/density, dyads/triads and groups, ranking/brokerage, clustering/block models, graphic approaches, visualization, diffusion and simulation. Moreover, we looked at the different research areas from which examples for the analysis of social networks are drawn. We divided them up as follows:
social and political sciences, social psychology, ethnology, organizational behavior/theory and computer science.
4. Synopsis: Type of documentations, Didactical set-up, Methodology
Type of Documentation Didactical Set-up
Dimensions
Authors Introductory Text Edited Volume Work book Handbook Instructions Learning Targets Examples Exercises Glossary Summary Additional Literature
(Brandes/Erlebach 2005) ; ; ;
(Carrington/Scott et al. 2005) ;
(de Nooy/Mrvar et al. 2005) ; ; ; ; ;
(Degenne/Forsé 1999) ; ;
(Freeman 2004) ;
(Galaskiewicz/Wasserman 1994) ; ;
(Hollstein/Straus 2006) ; ;
(Jansen 2003) ; ; ; ;
(Pappi 1987) ;
(Schweizer 1996) ; ; ;
(Scott 2000) ; ;
(Trappmann/Hummell et al. 2005) ; ; ;
(Wasserman/Faust 1994) ; ; ; ;
(Weyer 2000) ; ; ;
Synopsis: Methodology, Software for data analysis
Methodology Software for data analysis
Dimensions
Authors
Static Networks Dynamic Networks (Empirical) quantitative (Empirical) qualitative Ego-centric networks Whole networks UCInet Pajek SPPS/Stata Others
(Brandes/Erlebach 2005) ; ; ;
(Carrington/Scott et al. 2005) ; ; ; ; ; ;
(de Nooy/Mrvar et al. 2005) ; ; ; ;
(Degenne/Forsé 1999) ; ; ;
(Freeman 2004) ; ; ; ;
(Galaskiewicz/Wasserman 1994) ; ; ;
(Hollstein/Straus 2006) ; ; ; ;
(Jansen 2003) ; ; ; ;
(Pappi 1987)
(Schweizer 1996) ; ; ;
(Scott 2000) ; ;
(Trappmann/Hummell et al. 2005) ; ; ; ; ;
(Wasserman/Faust 1994) ;
(Weyer 2000) ; ; ;
Synopsis: Content
Content*
Dimensions
Authors Social capital/ social structure Rational Choice Relations Roles/Positions Centrality/Equivalenc e/Density/cohesion Dyads/Triads/ Groups Ranking/ Brokerage Clustering, Block models Visualization Diffusion Simulations Social and political science Social psychology Ethnology Organizational behavior/theory Computer science
(Brandes/Erlebach 2005) ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;
(Carrington/Scott et al. 2005) ; ; ; ; ; ;
(de Nooy/Mrvar et al. 2005) ; ; ; ; ; ;
(Degenne/Forsé 1999) ; ; ; ; ;
(Freeman 2004) ; ; ; ; ;
(Galaskiewicz/Wasserman 1994) ; ; ; ;
(Hollstein/Straus 2006) ; ; ; ; ;
(Jansen 2003) ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;
(Pappi 1987) ; ; ; ; ; ;
(Schweizer 1996) ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;
(Scott 2000) ; ; ; ; ;
(Trappmann/Hummell et al. 2005) ; ; ; ; ; ;
(Wasserman/Faust 1994) ; ; ; ; ; ; ;
(Weyer 2000) ; ; ; ; ;
* = based on the table of contents of analyzed books.
5. Results
The analysis, of the books selection social network analysis, shows that most of the books are edited volumes, which focus on specific approaches or introductory texts, focusing on methodological aspects and their practical applications. With respect to the content, most books focus either on a) the analytical aspects, or b) the underlying network theories. The following subchapters show the results of the analysis in more detail:
5.1 Overlaps
All analyzed books have in common, that they use static networks. Only five of the books include recent trends and introduce dynamic networks. Therefore, about 80% of all books include quantitative (empirical) methods. Except the Hollstein/Strauss (2006) book which focuses exclusively on qualitative approaches. With the exception of Schweizer (Schweizer 1996; Trappmann/Hummell et al. 2005), all books address whole networks and neglect ego- centric network approaches.
With respect to the content, all books show in detail the underlying sociological network theories. In addition they explain the main definitions and terms of network theory and its dimensions such as social capital, relationships, roles/positions, network measures, levels of analysis and partially also visualization. Examples are mainly drawn from the sociology, with some exceptions to political science (Galaskiewicz/Wasserman 1994; Weyer 2000), social psychology (Galaskiewicz/Wasserman 1994), ethnology (Schweizer 1996; Jansen 2003;
Hollstein/Straus 2006) or computer science (Pappi 1987; Jansen 2003; Brandes/Erlebach 2005; Carrington/Scott et al. 2005). Examples from organizational theory/behavior are not included.
5.2 Missing Components
To be able to understand social network and social network analysis, it is important to learn about social structure (patterns) and the analysis of the quality of relationships respectively (see: Wellman/Frank 2000). It is important to collect the perceptions of network actors and their intentions when it comes to their specific network relationships.
Therefore, a social network analysis, in which the individual is the focal point of attention, needs to include the social environment and the context to understand why and how actors build their relationships („Lebenswelt“) upon. By excluding the social environment from the analysis, we would get much better results that constitute and help us explain the relational and dynamic elements of interactions within the network. So far, there is no book that includes systematically all these aspects into a social network explanation. This becomes even more evident if we look at the presentation of the actual sequences within the social network analysis: all authors only show a reduced or small portion of the required analysis sequences with the help of network analysis software such as Ucinet, SPSS, or Pajek. We see an obvious advantage if it is possible to use examples or precise assignments in order to show students and learners how to conduct this task individually.
With respect to didactical aspects, all books basically lack the inclusion of precise assignments for each step in the data analysis. None of the books includes learning targets or practice exercises. Some hints are given in Jansen (2003), Scott (2000) and Trappmann/Hummel et al. (2005). Only Trappmann/Hummel et al. (2005) De Nooy/Mrvar et al. (2005) and Wasserman/Faust (1994) include a glossary. Moreover, De Nooy/Mrvar et al. (2005) and Wasserman/Faust (1994) have a chapter summary.
Astonishing is the fact that none of the books which are included in our market analysis come with a self-learners component. Instructions on how to approach the self-directed learning of the presented content are also not included. This would theoretically include practical examples, which allow the reader to reconstruct the research process step by step individually.
6. Summary
Our analysis shows, that all reviewed books include the standard social theories and as well as terms to understand social network analysis. We think, that individual (ego-centric) network approaches are underrepresented. Surely it is true for dynamic networks –both are important current trends.
None of the books shows the concrete steps in its research process in form of a timely sequence including aspects such as data collection, data preparation, and data analysis.
A minority of the books shows actual analysis steps using network analysis software programs such as Ucinet, SPSS, or Pajek.
We conclude that there is not a single book on the market today, that systematically shows the social reference actors use in respect to their structural embeddedness in form of a concrete example so that academics and practitioners can intuitively understand the social network paradigm.
This would also include desirable elements such as a website compendium, including prominent data sets, interesting exercises and assignments, frequently asked questions/answers, updates on data analysis programs, and innovative developments in the field.
The following appendix includes a short description and bibliography of all analyzed books.
Bibliography
Brandes, U./T. Erlebach (2005). Network Analysis: Methodological Foundations. Berlin- Heidelberg.
Carrington, P. J./J. Scott, et al. (2005). Models and Methods in Social Network Analysis.
Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.
de Nooy, W./A. Mrvar, et al. (2005). Exploratory Social Network Analysis with Pajek. New York.
Degenne, A./M. Forsé (1999). Introducing Social Networks London/Thousand Oaks/New Dehli, Sage Publications.
Freeman, L. C. (2004). The Development of Social Network Analysis - A Study in the Sociology of Science. Vancouver, Empirical Press.
Galaskiewicz, J./S. Wasserman (1994). Advances in social network analysis: Research in the social and behavioral sciences. Thousand Oaks.
Hollstein, B./F. Straus (2006). Qualitative Netzwerkanalyse: Konzepte, Methoden, Anwendunge. Wiesbaden, VS Verlag fuer Sozialwissenschaften.
Jansen, D. (2003). Einfuehrung in die Netzwerkanalyse. Opladen, Leske + Budrich, UTB Pappi, F. U. (1987). Die Netzwerkanalyse aus soziologischer Perspektive. Methoden der
Netzwerkanalyse. F. U. Pappi. München, Oldenburg: 11 - 38.
Schweizer , Th. (1996). Muster sozialer Ordnung. Netzwerkanalyse als Fundament der Sozialethnologie. Berlin.
Scott, J. (2000). Social Network Analysis: A Handbook. London.
Trappmann, M./H. J. Hummell, et al. (2005). Strukturanlayse sozialer Netzwerke.
Wiesbaden, VS Verlag fuer Sozialwissenschaften.
Wasserman, S./K. Faust (1994). Social Network Analysis : Methods and Applications (Structural Analysis in the Social Sciences). Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.
Wellman, B./K. Frank (2000). Network Capital in a Multi-Level World. Getting Support from a Personal Communities. Social Capital: Theory and Research. N. Lin/R.
Burt/K. Cook. Chicago, De Gruyter: 1- 33.
Weyer, J. (2000). Soziale Netzwerke: Konzepte und Methoden der sozialwissenschaftlichen Netzwerkforschung. Muenchen/Wien, R. Oldenbourg Verlag.
Appendix
German Books German Title
Soziale Netzwerke: Konzepte und Methoden der sozialwissenschaftlichen Netzwerkforschung.
Author
Editor: Weyer, Johannes References
München: Oldenbourg. 2000. 317 S.
Serientitel: Lehr- und Handbücher der Soziologie ISBN: 3-486-25257-7
Type of document
Edited Volume; Handbook Summary in German
"In modernen Gesellschaften ist der Gedanke weit verbreitet, dass soziale Netzwerk eine große Leistungsfähigkeit bei der Generierung von Problemlösungen besitzen und andere Formen der Handlungskoordination, beispielsweise der bürokratischen Organisation, oftmals überlegen sind. Netzwerke verknüpfen Flexibilität und Effizienz in einer einzigartigen Weise. Sie machen zudem das Risiko innovativen Handelns kalkulierbar, weil sich die kooperierenden Partner wechselseitig absichern. Das Werk liefert anhand unterschiedlicher gesellschaftlicher Handlungsfelder Einblicke in die Praktiken einer vernetzten Gesellschaft. Es präsentiert zudem Bausteine einer soziologischen Theorie sozialer Netzwerke. Aus dem Inhalt (Auswahl): Methoden der Netzwerkanalyse;
Strategische und regionale Netzwerke; Policy-Netzwerke; Forschungs- und
Innovationsnetzwerke; die Akteur-Netzwerk-Theorie; system- und handlungs- und kulturtheoretische Analysen zum Netzwerkbegriff." (Autorenreferat)
Keywords
social network; network analysis; analysis procedure; research; method; philosophy of science; social capital; social relations; action theory; intercompany cooperation;
regionalization; globalization; political system; innovation; technical development;
economic relations; network; concept; system theory Method
application-oriented; philosophy of science, basic research; documentation
German Title
Muster sozialer Ordnung: Netzwerkanalyse als Fundament der Sozialethnologie.
Author
Schweizer, Thomas Source
Berlin: Reimer. 1996. 306 S. (Abb., Anh.) ISBN: 3-496-02613-8
Type of document Monograph Summary in German
"Akteure sind in sozialen Beziehungen eingebettet und erzeugen mit ihrem Handeln soziale Ordnungsmuster: Die Netzwerkanalyse ist ein interdisziplinärer
Forschungsansatz, der soziale, wirtschaftliche, politische und kommunikative
Verflechtungen beschreibt und erklärt. An verschiedenen ethnographischen Beispielen (etwa Gabentausch der !Kung in der Kalahari, kula-Tausch in Melanesien, Rituale in einem javanischen Dorf, soziale Beziehungen kalifornischer Stadtbewohner) und in Auseinandersetzung mit älteren und neueren ethnologischen Richtungen
(Strukturalismus, interpretative und postmoderne Ethnologie) erläutert dieses Buch Theorie und Methode der aktuellen Netzwerkanalyse. Es begründet damit eine Neuorientierung der ethnologischen Forschung über soziale Organisationen in traditionellen und modernen Zusammenhängen." (Autorenreferat)
Keywords
network analysis; method; social relations; analysis; ethnomethodology; ethnography; traditional society; social structure; action; social structure; pattern recognition Method
basic research; empirical-quantitative; application of theory case study
German Title
Methoden der Netzwerkanalyse Author
Pappi, Franz Urban Koolwijk, Jürgen von Wieken-Mayser, Maria Source
München: Oldenbourg. 1987. 280 S.
Gesamttitel: Techniken der empirischen Sozialforschung, Bd. 1 ISBN: 3-486-44801-3
Type of document Edited Volume Summary in German
Die Netzwerkanalyse in ihrer heutigen Form basiert auf den zwei Forschungstraditionen der Soziometrie und der Sozialanthropologie. Die verschiedenen Anwendungsgebiete - Kleingruppe einerseits, größere Sozialsysteme andererseits - sind geblieben, die
Gemeinsamkeiten der Methode haben aber zur Herausbildung der Netzwerkanalyse als eines übergreifenden Forschungsparadigmas geführt. Teil 2 (Teilgruppenbildung in Netzwerken) und Teil 3 (Mikrostrukturen von Gesamtnetzwerken) dieses Sammelbandes behandeln die Hauptgebiete der Methodenentwicklung auf dem Gebiet der
Netzwerkanalyse in den letzten 15 Jahren. Diese Methoden sind weitgehend
anwendungsneutral, nämlich sowohl in der Sozialpsychologie als auch in der Soziologie, politische Wissenschaft und Sozialanthropologie einsetzbar. In einem Einleitungskapitel wird ein Überblick über die Netzwerkanalyse aus der Sicht des Soziologen gegeben. In Teil 4 wird eine geschlossene Darstellung der "Netzwerkanalyse in Kleingruppen"
geboten. Abschließend wird die Durchführung von Netzwerkanalysen auf EDV-Anlagen behandelt. (GF)
Keywords
network analysis; social network; social relations; small group; group; social position; group cohesion; social structure; role distribution; method; analysis Method
develompent of methods; basic research, application of theory
German Title
Einführung in die Netzwerkanalyse: Grundlagen, Methoden, Forschungsbeispiele.
Autor
Jansen, Dorothea Source
Opladen: Leske u. Budrich. 2003. 312 S.
Serientitel: UTB : Sozialwissenschaften, 2241 ISBN: 3-8100-3149-6
Type of document Monograph Summary in German
"Das Lehrbuch vermittelt die Grundlagen und Methoden der Netzwerkanalyse. Die statistischen Instrumente zur Erhebung und Analyse von Netzwerkdaten werden vorgestellt und in den Bereichen der Policy- und Eliteforschung, der
Organisationsforschung und der Forschung sozialer Ungleichheit demonstriert. Neben der Darstellung des statistischen Instrumentariums wird die Netzwerkanalyse als Theorieperspektive vorgestellt, mit der sich Aussagen über die Handlungsmöglichkeit von Akteuren mit Theorien über Institutionen, Strukturen und Systeme verbinden lassen." (Authorenreferat)
Keywords
network analysis; organizational analysis; statistical method; social structure; social capital; power; prestige; group; elite; social inequality Method
application-oriented, basic research, documentation, research examples
German Title
Strukturanalyse sozialer Netzwerke: Konzepte, Modelle, Methoden.
Author
Trappmann, Mark Hummell, Hans J.
Sodeur, Wolfgang Reference
Wiesbaden: VS Verlag für Sozialwissenschaften 2005.
Serientitel: Lehrbuch ISBN: 3-531-14382-4 Type of document Monograph Summary in German
"Dieses Buch führt in das Instrumentarium der Analyse sozialer Strukturen ein. Dabei orientiert es sich an der transdisziplinären Netzwerkanalyse, die durch vier Elemente definierbar ist: Eine strukturelle Sichtweise, die Verwendung systematisch gesammelter empirischer Beziehungsdaten, graphische Verfahren und mathematische Modelle. Im Einzelnen werden die Möglichkeiten der Untersuchung interindividueller
Beziehungsstrukturen, der Identifikation von Teilgruppen ('Cliquen' u. ä.), von
Positionen und von Rollen sowie der Überprüfung von Strukturhypothesen dargestellt.
Saemtliche Analysen beziehen sich auf einen einheitlichen Datensatz und werden mit frei verfügbarer Software durchgeführt. Der Leser gewinnt damit ein grundlegendes
Verständnis für die Anwendung der Netzwerkanalyse und eigene Erfahrung mit ihrer Durchführung. Das Lehrbuch richtet sich an Lehrende und Studierende
fortgeschrittener Kurse in der empirischen Sozialforschung sowie der empirisch orientierten struktur-theoretischen Soziologie." (Autorenreferat)
Keywords
social network; analysis procedure; mathematical method; mathematical sociology; social relations; group; role; network analysis; dyad Method
application-oriented, basic research, documentation, research examples
German Title
Qualitative Netzwerkanalyse: Konzepte Methoden, Anwendungen Author
Hollstein, Betina Straus, Florian Reference
Wiesbaden: VS Verlag für Sozialwissenschaften 2006.
Serientitel: Lehrbuch ISBN: 3-531-14394-8 Type of document Edited Volume Summary in German
" Qualitative Netzwerkanalysen finden derzeit Eingang in unterschiedlichste Forschungsfelder. Das Handbuch bietet erstmalig eine Systematisierung der Forschungsstrategien und Methoden, mit denen qualitative Netzwerkanalysen durchgeführt werden können.
Neben systematisierenden und konzeptionellen Beiträgen werden anhand von
exemplarischen Studien methodische Designs qualitativer Netzwerkanalysen vorgestellt und grundlegende Probleme der Durchführung, Erhebung und Auswertung von qualitativen Netzwerkstudien erörtert.
Aus dem Inhalt
Grundlagen - Zum Verhältnis von quantitativer und qualitativer Netzwerkanalyse:
Möglichkeiten der Triangulation - Formierung und Dynamik von Netzwerke - Mobilität und Migration: Netzwerke im Raum - Netzwerke, Biographie und Lebenslauf -
Resümee“
Keywords
network analysis; qualitative method; empirical social research; methodology; social relations; triangulation, multi-level analysis; regional development; religious movement;
horizontal mobility; family; friendship; life planning;
Method
documentation, handbook, application-oriented
Englischsprachige Bücher: Social Networks
English Title
Network Analysis: Methodological Foundations.
Author
Brandes Ulrik (Universitaet Konstanz) Erlebach, Thomas. (TU München) Source
Springer 2005, ISBN 3-540-24979-6 Serientitel: Tutorial
ISBN: 3-531-14382-4 Type of document Edited volume Summary in English
“Network is a heavily overloaded term, so that network analysis means different things to different people. Specific forms of network analysis are used in the study of diverse structures such as the Internet, interlocking directorates, transportation systems,
epidemic spreading, metabolic pathways, the Web graph, electrical circuits, project plans, and so on. There is, however, a broad Methodological foundation which is quickly becoming a prerequisite for researchers and practitioners working with network models.
From a computer science perspective, network analysis is applied graph theory. Unlike standard graph theory books, the content of this book is organized according to Methods for specific levels of analysis (element, group, network) rather than abstract concepts like paths, matchings, or spanning subgraphs. Its topics therefore range from vertex centrality to graph clustering and the evolution of scale-free networks. In 15 coherent chapters, this monograph-like tutorial book introduces and surveys the concepts and Methods that drive network analysis, and is thus the first book to do so from a methodological perspective independent of specific application areas.“
Keywords
applied graph theory, combinatorial optimization, complex systems, connectivity, evolving networks, graph algorithms, network algorithms, network design, network statistics, social network analysis
Method
documentation, application-oriented, basic research, Chapter Notes
English Title
Models and Methods in Social Network Analysis Author
Carrington, P. J./J. Scott/Wasserman, S.
Source
2005
Series: Structural analysis in the social sciences; 27 Cambridge; New York
Cambridge University Press 0521809592 (hardback) 0521600979 (paperback) Type of document
Edited volume Summary in English
Recent developments in network measurement / Peter V. Marsden -- Network sampling and model fitting / Ove Frank -- Extending centrality / Martin Everett and Stephen P.
Borgatti -- Positional analyses of sociometric data / Patrick Doreian, Vladimir Batagelj, and Anuška Ferligoj -- Network models and Methodes for studying the diffusion of innovations / Thomas W. Valente -- Using correspondence analysis for joint displays of affiliation networks / Katherine Faust -- An introduction to random graphs, dependence graphs, and p* / Stanley Wasserman and Garry Robins -- Random graph models for social networks : multiple relations or multiple raters / Laura M. Koehly and Philippa Pattison -- Interdependencies and social processes : dependence graphs and generalized dependence structures / Garry Robins and Philippa Pattison -- Models for longitudinal network data / Tom A.B. Snijders -- Graphic techniques for exploring social network data / Linton C. Freeman -- Software for social network analysis / Mark Huisman and Marijtje A.J. van Duijin.
Keywords
Social networks -- Mathematical models. Social networks – Research -- Methodology.
Method
documentation, application-oriented, basic research
English Title
Evolution of Social Networks Author
Doreian, P./Stockman, F. N.
Source
1997 Routledge
1 edition (April 1, 1997) ISBN: 9056995383 Paperback
Type of document Edited Volume Summary in English
Taken from a special issue of the journal Mathematical Sociology, Evolution of Social Networks answers the question of whether we can apply evolutionary theories to our understanding of the development of social structures. Social life emerges as soon as persons establish relations with each other. Regardless of the specific social processes, these relations evolve into networks with coherent structures, structures that provide some actors with opportunities for action while impeding the progress of others.
Social networks have increasingly become the focus of many social scientists as a way of analyzing these social structures. While many powerful network analytic tools have been developed and applied to a wide range of empirical phenomena, understanding the evolution of social organization still requires theories and analyses of social network evolutionary processes. Researchers from a variety of disciplines have combined their efforts in what is an indication of some very promising future research; the work represented in this volume provides a basis for a sustained analysis of the evolution of social life.
Keywords
Simulation, dynamic networks, evolution, longitudinal behavior Method
application-oriented, mathematical models, basic research
English Title
Introducing Social Networks.
Author
Degenne, A./M. Forsé Source
1999
(Introducing Statistical Methodes series) Sage Publications
London/Thousand Oaks/New Dehli Type of document
Monograph Summary in English
An accessible introduction to the study of social networks. More than just a technical manual, Social Networks is both a practical handbook and up-to-date review of the latest research.
With technical jargon kept to a minimum, the reader will gain a thorough understanding of the empirical application of the Methods of social network analysis and the theory of social structures that underlie them. Real-life examples are used to illustrate the
techniques and ideas explored.
The book also includes a useful summary of the concepts needed for dealing with more advanced techniques and the main computer software packages used for social network analysis.
Introducing Social Networks will be essential reading for students and researchers in a wide range of disciplines, including sociology, management science and public
administration.
Keywords
Social network analysis, structural analysis Method
application-oriented, basic research, documentation, research examples
English Title
Research Methods in Social Network Analysis Author
Freeman, L./White, D. R./Romney, A. K.
Source
Fairfax, VA
George Mason University Press ISBN: 1560005696
Type of document Monograph Summary in English - not available - Keywords
Network representations, structure of relations, implications of relational structure, clustering and positioning of actors Method
documentation, application-oriented
English Title
Advances in Social Network Analysis – Author
Wasserman, S./Galaskiewicz, J.
Source
1994
Research in the Social and Behavioral Sciences Sage Focus Edition
ISBN 0803943024 ISBN 0803943032 (pb) Type of document Edited volume Summary in English
Introduction : advances in the social and behavioral sciences from social network analysis / Joseph Galaskiewicz and Stanley Wasserman -- Network studies of social influence / Peter V. Marsden and Noah E. Friedkin -- Epidemiology and social networks : modeling structured diffusion / Martina Morris -- Statistical models for social support networks / Michael E. Walker, Stanley Wasserman, and Barry Wellman -- Social
cognition in context : some applications of social network analysis / Philippa Pattison -- Anthropological contributions to the study of social networks : a review / Jeffrey C.
Johnson -- Primate social networks / Donald Stone Sade and Malcolm M. Dow -- Network analysis and computer-mediated communication systems / Ronald E. Rice -- Intraorganizational networks : the micro side / David Krackhardt and Daniel J. Brass -- Networks of interorganizational relations / Mark S. Mizruchi and Joseph Galaskiewicz -- Marketing and social networks / Phipps Arabie and Yoram Wind -- Networks of elite structure and decision making / David Knok
Keywords
Social network analysis, social influence, diffusion, social cognition, anthropology, computer-mediated communication, intraorganizational networks, marketing, elite structures
Method
documentation, application-oriented
English Title
Social Structures: A Network Approach (Contemporary Studies in Sociology) Author
Wellman, B./Berkowitz, S. D.
Source
1988 Cambridge
Cambridge University Press ISBN: 1567503276
Type of document Sammelband Summary in English - not available - Keywords
Structural Analysis, Kinship ties, Personal Communities, Markets an Market-Areas, Social Change, Social mobility Method
documentation, application-oriented
English Title
Social Network Analysis – A Handbook Author
Scott, J.
Source
1991/2000 2nd Edition Sage Publications
London/Thousand Oaks/New Delhi ISBN 0-7619-6338-3
ISBN 0-7619-6339-1 (pb) Type of document
Monograph Summary in English
The revised and updated edition of this bestselling text provides an accessible
introduction to the theory and practice of network analysis in the social sciences. It gives a clear and authoritative guide to the general framework of network analysis, explaining the basic concepts and technical measures, and reviewing the available computer programs.
The text outlines both the theoretical basis of network analysis and the key techniques for using it as a research tool. Building upon definitions of points, lines and paths, John Scott shows their use in clarifying such measures as density, fragmentation and
centralization. He identifies the various cliques, components and circles into which networks are formed, and outlines an approach to the study of socially structured
positions. He also discusses the use of multidimensional Methods for investigating social networks.
Keywords
Social Network Analysis, Relational data, Attributes, Centrality, Components, Positions, Roles, Cluster, Density, Method
basic research, Introduction to the methods
English Title
Network Analysis Author
Knoke, D./J. H. Kuklinski Source
1982
Newbury Park/London/New Delhi Sage University Paper – No. 28.
ISBN 0-8039-1914-X Type of document Monograph Summary in English
The Authors, David Knoke and James H. Kuklinski, systematically inventory the central features of network analysis techniques, cite original sources to be consulted for greater detail, and suggest diverse applications in social science research.
Keywords
Social Network Analysis, Basic concepts, data collection, Methods and models Method
documentation, basic research
English Title
Social Network Analysis: Methods and Applications Author
Wasserman, S./Faust, K.
Source
Cambridge University Press
Series: Structural Analysis in the Social Sciences 1994
ISBN 0-521-38707-8 Type of document Monograph Summary in English
Social network analysis, which focuses on relationships among social entities, is used widely in the social and behavioral sciences, as well as in economics, marketing, and industrial engineering. Social Network Analysis: Methods and Applications reviews and discusses Methods for the analysis of social networks with a focus on applications of these Methods to many substantive examples. As the first book to provide a
comprehensive coverage of the Methodology and applications of the field, this study is both a reference book and a textbook.
Keywords
Networks, Relations, Structure, Mathematical Representation of Social Networks, Structural and Locational Properties, Roles and Positions, Dyadic and Triadic Models, Statistical Dyadic Interaction Models
Method
mathematical foundations, basic research, documentation
English Title
Exploratory Social Network Analysis with Pajek Author
De Nooy, W./Mrvar, A./Batagelji, V.
Source
Cambridge University Press
Series: Structural Analysis in the Social Sciences 2005
ISBN 978-0-521-84173-3 Type of document
Monograph Summary in English
This is the first textbook on social network analysis integrating theory, applications, and professional software for performing network analysis (Pajek). Step by step, the book introduces the main structural concepts and their applications in social research with exercises to test the understanding. An application section explaining how to perform the network analyses with Pajek software follows each theoretical section. Pajek software and datasets for all examples are freely available, so the reader can learn network analysis by doing it. In addition, each chapter offers case studies for practicing network analysis.
In the end, the reader has the knowledge, skills, and tools to apply social network analysis in all social sciences, ranging from anthropology and sociology to business administration and history.
Keywords
Social Network Analysis, fundamentals, Cohesion, Brokerage, Ranking, Roles, Method
Workbook, software introduction, measures, mathematical foundations
Electronic resources
Hanneman, R. A./Riddle, M. (2005.): Introduction to social network methods, Riverside, CA: University of California, Riverside ( published in digital form at
http://faculty.ucr.edu/~hanneman/).
Schnegg, M./Lang, H. : Netzwerkanalyse - Eine praxisorientierte Einführung, Methoden der Ethnographie – Heft 1, ISSN: 1618-6338, Ausgabe NWA1.4, März 2006.
Everton, S. F. (2004): A guide for the visually perplexed: Visually representing social networks, Version 3.0, Standford University (published in digital form at:
http://www.stanford.edu/group/esrg/siliconvalley/docs/networkmemo.pdf)
