Duncan Watts focuses on the dynamics of social networks and collective behavior. His work explores how information and influence spread through complex systems and how individuals and groups respond to these forces. Watts employs a data-driven approach to uncover the hidden patterns and principles that govern our social interactions. His research offers valuable insights into the nature of the connected age and how small events can have far-reaching consequences.
Exploring the pervasive concept of networks in modern society, the book delves into their various types and significance. It addresses fundamental questions about networks, drawing on insights from diverse scientific disciplines such as mathematics, physics, computer science, sociology, and biology. By compiling seminal articles, it serves as a comprehensive sourcebook that highlights key research and developments in the emerging science of networks, making it a valuable resource for understanding this intricate and impactful field.
Exploring the small-world phenomenon, Duncan Watts delves into the conditions that foster the emergence of interconnected networks. He examines the concept of "six degrees of separation," highlighting how seemingly distant individuals can be linked through a few mutual acquaintances. This investigation not only illuminates social connections but also offers insights into the broader implications of network theory across various fields. Watts' analysis encourages readers to reconsider the nature of relationships and connectivity in our increasingly interconnected world.
Scientists have begun to apply insights from the theoretical study of networks
to understand forms as superficially different as social networks and
electrical networks, computer networks and economic networks, and to show how
common principles underlie them all.
Watts, one of the principal architects of network theory, sets out to explain the innovative research that he and other scientists are spearheading to create a blueprint of this connected planet.
From one of the world's most influential and cited sociologists, Everything is
Obvious reveals how variable is human common sense and how, as individuals,
societies and businesses, we delude ourselves into thinking we can know the
future. 'Fascinating... Sparkles with counter-inuitive insights' Financial
Times
Everything is Obvious by a leading sociologist explores the variability of human common sense and how individuals, societies, and businesses often deceive themselves into believing they can predict the future.
This account of the life and career of Stanley Baldwin is thematic and issue-based. His life, career and contribution to inter-war politics in Britain are discussed along with a review of the differing views of historians of this period.
The third edition of a trusted text book for A level students and first-year
undergraduates. Provides a high-quality, fully up-to-date, accessible guide to
American government and politics. -- .
This introduction tells you everything you need to know about British
Government and Politics. It examines the institutions and practices and makes
comparisons with the experience of other countries.
Warum ist die Mona Lisa das berühmteste Gemälde aller Zeiten? Warum wurde Facebook zum größten sozialen Netzwerk? Wie viel Einfluss haben CEOs auf den Erfolg ihres Unternehmens? Und motiviert uns eine bessere Bezahlung wirklich zu höherer Leistung? Was uns im Nachhinein als offensichtlich erscheint, ja geradezu als eine Sache des gesunden Menschenverstandes, basiert in Wirklichkeit auf einem logischen Fehlschluss. Denn was im Rückblick als eine schlichte Kausalkette erscheint, die unweigerlich zu diesem Ergebnis führte, ist prospektiv ein unüberschaubarer Wust an Faktoren, deren Wichtigkeit nur schwer oder gar nicht einzuschätzen ist. Und wenn wir Vorhersagen über zukünftige Entwicklungen von Marken, Produkten oder gesellschaftlichen Entwicklungen machen, liegen wir und auch viele Experten folglich meist daneben. Duncan J. Watts ist Physiker und Soziologe und arbeitet als Principle Research Scientist bei Microsoft. Er zeigt anhand vieler Experimente in der Welt der Netzwerke, was wir tatsächlich mit einiger Sicherheit vorhersagen können und mit welchen Mitteln wir das bewerkstelligen können. Denn inzwischen haben wir mit dem Internet und den dort entwickelten Tools Möglichkeiten, von denen Generationen von Wirtschaftsund Sozialwissenschaftlern nur träumen konnten.
