BASS Sociology and Philosophy

This unit is an introduction to the theory, methods and procedures of social network analysis. We examine both complete and ego networks and we will consider the nature of network data and the idea of structural sociology. After introducing some basic terminology using UCINET and Netdraw we shall cover descriptive measures of cohesion and centrality together with techniques for uncovering hidden cohesive subgroups. We shall look at how the applications of these concepts have been used in the development of social network theories such as small worlds, strength of weak ties and structural holes. Examples will be drawn from a variety of contexts such as corporate elites, social movements and friendship networks.

We are all connected through networks. We have networks of friends, work colleagues, family ties and many other connections. The term social network and social networking are now part of our popular culture and everyone is familiar with the websites that enable us to more easily communicate using networks. The study of social networks is one of the fastest growing areas in sociology but has been around for decades, dating back to the work of Moreno in the 1930s. The aim of this unit is to give you the tools to map and analyze the patterns of relations that link individuals or groups. Taking this perspective allows us to develop theoretical concepts and methods which enable us to uncover and understand how the patterns in the social relations that bind us together influences our behaviour, attitudes and beliefs.

On completion of this unit successful students will be able to:

- Map and visualize social networks using standard tools
- Analyze network structures using descriptive measures
- Relate and apply key social network theories in different contexts
- Evaluate and critique social network studies

Weekly three hour lecture / workshop
Each week will be a one hour lecture followed by a two hour computer workshops. The first hour will be devoted to a demonstration and during the second hour students will undertake supervised computer worksheets.

Non-assessed mid-term written coursework network visualization 300 words .

ASSESSED - Written computer based network analysis (2000 words,100%)

All sociology courses include both formative feedback – which lets you know how you’re getting on and what you could do to improve – and summative feedback – which gives you a mark for your assessed work.

Scott, J (2000) Social Network Analysis: A Handbook
Knoke D and S Yang (2008) Social Network Analysis
Hanneman, R A. and M Riddle. (2005). Introduction to social network methods.