- Phillip Bonacich at Sunbelt Conference 2009 Image by Marc_Smith via Flickr
After 200 peer review papers and countless other readings, I can safely say I’ve scratched the surface of social network analysis. For a 40-year-old science, it can still feel like a new challenge daily, and I’m often asked where to start in terms of learning the ropes.
For a brief overview consider the LnxPharma Social Network Analysis Primer. I’d highly recommend you start with Bob Hanneman’s online Introduction to social network methods. Professor Hanneman’s manual focuses on using UCINET, which is a good all-around social network analysis program but for small data sets. If you need large data sets, use Valdo Batagelj’s PAJEK software.
You can also join INSNA - International Network for Social Network Analysis and attend SUNBELT, their annual international congress.
Steve Wasserman’s Social Network Analysis (1994) is a classic and must read.
For an updated overview read David Knoke and Song Yang’s book of the same title Social Network Analysis (2007).
Please feel free to post resources you think are worth exploring, both for beginners and advanced analysts.
