Social Networks

Yves Zenou and Joan De Martí,
Authors registered in the RePEc Author Service: Joan de Martí Beltran

No 7599, CEPR Discussion Papers from C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers

Abstract: We survey the literature on social networks by putting together the economics, sociological and physics/applied mathematics approaches, showing their similarities and differences. We expose, in particular, the two main ways of modeling network formation. While the physics/applied mathematics approach is capable of reproducing most observed networks, it does not explain why they emerge. On the contrary, the economics approach is very precise in explaining why networks emerge but does a poor job in matching real-world networks. We also analyze behaviors on networks, which take networks as given and focus on the impact of their structure on individuals? outcomes. Using a game-theoretical framework, we then compare the results with those obtained in sociology.

Keywords: Centrality measures; Game theory; Network formation; Random graph; Weak and strong ties. (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A14 C72 D85 Z13 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2009-12
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-gth, nep-hpe, nep-net, nep-soc and nep-ure
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (10)

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Related works:
Working Paper: Social Networks (2009)
Working Paper: Social Networks (2009)
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