Communication and Social Networks (Fall 2023)/granovetter summary

This 1973 paper by Mark Granovetter discusses the strength of weak ties in social networks. Granovetter argues that weak social ties, connections between individuals who do not interact frequently, play an important role in diffusion of information and opportunities. Weak ties act as bridges between densely knit cliques and groups, allowing ideas and information to spread beyond tightly knit social circles.

Granovetter defines the strength of an interpersonal tie as a combination of time invested, emotional intensity, intimacy, and reciprocity. Strong ties are characterized by substantial time commitment, deep emotional attachment, and frequent reciprocal services. Weak ties require less time, intensity, intimacy and reciprocity.

The author hypothesizes that the stronger the tie between two individuals, the larger the proportion of mutual contacts they will share. This is because strong ties involve greater time commitment, leading to more overlap in social circles. Similarity also breeds connection – if A and B are both close to C, A and B are likely to become friends.

Granovetter argues that weak ties play an essential bridging role in social networks. Information and ideas diffuse more rapidly across weak ties due to their bridging function. Weak ties provide shortcuts across social distance and allow ideas to permeate different social circles.

The paper explores the role of weak ties in job mobility, showing that many people find jobs through weak acquaintances rather than close friends. This illustrates how weak ties provide access to non-redundant information and opportunities.

At the community level, Granovetter suggests networks rich in local bridges (weak ties) lead to greater social cohesion and capacity for collective action. Fragmented communities composed solely of isolated cliques will struggle to organize effectively.

The author contrasts his model of weak ties to the Davis-Holland-Leinhardt model of transitivity in small groups. Granovetter claims transitivity depends on tie strength, being more likely when ties are strong, less likely when weak.

Overall, the paper highlights the crucial bridging role played by weak social ties in diffusion, mobility, and community organization. Granovetter demonstrates the importance of linkage between micro and macro levels of sociological theory.