The historical success of science has been rooted in the concept of breaking systems down into their basic units. However, to understand complex structures, it is important to adopt a different perspective that allows us to see the interconnections of the elements within them. Ernesto Estrada, a research professor at the Higher Council for Scientific Research (CSIC), delves into this concept in his book “At the Mercy of the Networks.”
Estrada introduces the idea of networks or graphs as mathematical objects that simplify the relationships between elements. These networks capture essential information across various real-world scenarios such as social relations, epidemics, anatomical structures, gene networks, and social conflicts. Social networks, in particular, serve as a robust framework for mathematical analysis due to their prevalence in everyday life.
The book discusses mathematical models that simulate the formation of social networks, providing insights into their structural dynamics. Estrada references the Erdös and Rényi model, which starts with a set number of individuals who gradually form connections based on a conducive environment for relationships.
Real-world social networks exhibit specific characteristics, such as network density and connectivity, which impact information flow within the network. The concept of network transitivity, where friends of friends are likely to connect, distinguishes real-world networks from simpler mathematical models. Alternative models proposed by researchers like Strogatz, Watts, Barabási, and Albert offer a more nuanced understanding of social network complexity.
Overall, networks serve as a powerful tool for studying complex systems and phenomena, offering a mathematical framework for exploring their intricacies. Researchers like Estrada shed light on how these networks shape our understanding of social dynamics and information transmission.