W11.2 Social network

1. Summarization
    Social network analysis looks at the structure of social networks, including actors, ties, and interactions. It origins from various disciplines in the 80s and is now often used in sociology. Social networks are studied at micro, meso and macro levels, focusing on individuals, organizations and populations. Different network types, such as random and scale-free networks, are analyzed. Graph theory and balance theory are among the theoretical frameworks used in social network analysis. Structural role theory and heterophily theory were fundamental theories in this field. The presence of structural holes in networks provides advantages by connecting separate clusters. Overall, social network analysis provides valuable insights into relationships at various levels of society.

2. What was interesting/what did you learn?
  A Dutch tv show simulates the process of a specialized detective team of the police searching for 'criminals' in hiding. A data analyst is part of that team. The analyst also uses a variant of social network analysis to get a better understanding of the social situation of a certain person. It is particularly interesting to see how networks can be graphed and analysed in social science. As it can be used for anything remotely a form of a network.

3. Discussion points
    Social network analysis can be used for many things, like the example previously told. However, it can be easily abused. With the rise of usage of social media, tech and relevant companies gain incentives to extract data. Illegally or legally, it can be scary if you truly realize how much data can be extracted. If you were to talk about something with a friend, the topic might pop up on your social media hours later. This is because algorithms can recognize through both phones when people are talking with each other and assume that the friend's interest is also their interest. Should social network analysis by companies become more limited?

Jasper Toonen - 12 June 2023
Introduction to Information Sociology

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