The Human in the Network of Relationships

Networks consist of nodes and edges. Nodes are usually considered to be individuals, but they can also be other social structures, such as organizations or states, etc. The edges represent the in-between, namely what stands between the nodes and connects them—and sometimes also separates them. This is how traditional network analysis sees it. The chapter introduces what is meant by strong and weak relationships. It also discusses the consequences of orienting towards the strength of relationships. It shows where the gaps in the classic argumentation of network research in this area can be found. Super weak relationships can help to close these gaps. When arguing with the strength of relationships, one must always keep in mind the interplay of different strengths.