Understanding Social Networks: Theories, Concepts and Findings

Despite the swift spread of social network concepts and their applications and the rising use of network analysis in social science, it is not easy to find a book that provides a thorough general introduction for the serious reader. Understanding Social Networks: Theories, Concepts and Findings by Charles Kadushin, one of the pioneers in this field, skillfully fills this gap by explaining the ideas that underlie the social network phenomenon. Written for those interested in this fast moving area but who are not mathematically inclined, it covers fundamental concepts, then discusses networks and their core themes in increasing order of complexity. Kadushin demystifies the concepts, theories, and findings developed by network experts. He selects material that serves as basic building blocks and examples of best practices that will allow the reader to understand and evaluate new developments as they emerge.
Understanding Social Networks will be useful to social scientists who encounter social network research, students new to the network field, as well as managers, marketers, community leaders and anyone interested in having a deeper understating of the hidden societal impact of personal connections.