Social Networks Class 14

What is social capital?

The value and resources people gain through their social relationships and networks.

What does social capital help with?

Finding jobs, getting advice/support, accessing opportunities, building trust and cooperation

How is social capital different from human or financial capital?

Human capital = skills and education

Financial capital = money and assets

Social capital = value from who you know and how you're connected

What is a structural hole?

A gap between two groups in a network that aren’t directly connected.

Why are structural holes important?

People who connect across structural holes gain access to new ideas, opportunities, and influence.

What is a bridging tie?

A tie that links separate groups or clusters, often a weak tie that brings new information.

Real-life example of a bridging tie?

A student who is part of two clubs and connects members from each that wouldn’t otherwise interact.

What happens if a network has no bridges?

The network becomes closed off, and innovation or information stays stuck in one group.

What is a strong tie?

A close, emotionally strong connection (e.g., family, best friends).

What is a weak tie?

A looser, more casual connection (e.g., acquaintances or classmates you don’t talk to often).

What is “the strength of weak ties”?

A theory by Mark Granovetter, weak ties connect you to new people, ideas, and job leads.

What is closure in networks?

A situation where everyone in a group knows each other, high trust and support, but fewer new ideas.

Who are two key theorists behind social capital?

Coleman: Emphasized strong, dense networks (trust, norms)

Burt: Emphasized bridging across gaps (more opportunity)

What is bridging in networks?

Connecting across structural holes using weak ties — provides access to diversity and opportunity.

How does social capital relate to inequality?

People with more bridging ties often gain more opportunities, reinforcing social inequality. (nepotism)

What’s an equity concern about networks?

People in isolated groups may miss out on resources, jobs, and info because they’re cut off from key bridges.

What’s one way to reduce inequality in social capital?

Create programs that intentionally connect different groups (e.g., mentoring, cross-cultural partnerships).