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A general academic networks view is presented. This network has been build from the author’s interaction through their scientific papers, indexed by Thomson Reuters (previously ISI Thomson). Accent is place in the interaction of main academic subsystems: Scientific Research; Schools and Faculties; Humanities Research and General Secretary Office. The data base under analysis encompass 71878 papers with one Mexico’s coauthor at least, all papers are indexed by ISI Thomson. Papers publication date goes from 1981 to 2003.

Investigações realizadas com duas associações de moradores de Porto Alegre evidenciaram que as distâncias estruturais e relacionais entre os indivíduos se reproduzem na conformação das redes associativas. Desse modo, o objetivo deste artigo é identificar e analisar mecanismos que permitem explicar a associação entre as distâncias estrutural e relacional – ou seja, a homofilia – observada no associativismo urbano. Frente à impossibilidade de abordar adequadamente os diversos mecanismos causais da homofilia, optou-se por focalizar um que, hipoteticamente, parece desempenhar papel central num contexto de profunda desigualdade como o brasileiro: o mecanismo de invisibilização. Assim, são investigadas as relações e os deslocamentos de indivíduos como um recurso metodológico para analisar os padrões homofílicos observados na atuação das organizações às quais eles pertencem. A análise realizada possibilita sustentar empiricamente a presença e importância do mecanismo invisibilização. De um lado, a invisibilização se expressa na tendência de que indivíduos em posições subalternizadas estejam ausentes dos espaços e relações que estruturam o cotidiano dos indivíduos pesquisados. Tal ausência diminui (e, no limite, impede) a possibilidade de que relações significativas e duradouras se estabeleçam entre desiguais. Por outro, mesmo quando aquela tendência é rompida e os entrevistados interagem com indivíduos e organizações em posições inferiorizadas, observa-se que tal interação tende a não produzir vínculos relevantes. Abstract: Previous researches conducted on two neighborhood associations in Porto Alegre have shown that structural and relational distances between individuals are reproduced in the conformation of the associative networks. The purpose of this paper is to identify and analyze the mechanisms that explain the association between structural and relational distances – i.e. the homophily – observed in the urban associations. Faced with the impossibility of covering adequately the various causal mechanisms of homophily, we chose to address a mechanism that appears to play a central role in contexts of profound inequality as in Brazil: the mechanism of invisibility. Therefore, the paper focuses on the relationships and the urban displacements of two individuals as a methodological resource to analyze the homophylic patterns observed in organizations in which they participate. The research findings enables support empirically the presence and importance of the mechanism of invisibility. On one hand, the invisibility is expressed in the propensity of individuals in subordinated positions are absent from the spaces and relationships that structure the daily lives of individuals surveyed. This absence decreases (and, ultimately, prevent) the possibility that meaningful and lasting relationships are established between unequals. On the other hand, even when that propensity is overcome and the respondents interact with individuals and organizations in inferior positions, it is observed that such interaction tends not to produce relevant links.

Este artículo explora la aplicabilidad del programa informático VennMaker para la investigación histórica. El artículo se apoya en dos casos de estudio de investigaciones históricas actuales orientadas a estudiar las redes y que cubren diferentes periodos de tiempo y distintas fuentes. La mayor ventaja de VennMaker es que invierte el proceso de recolección de datos. Mientras que los programas tradicionales utilizan datos pre-codificados para producir el mapa de una red, VennMaker genera los datos mientras que el investigador dibuja los nodos y crea el mapa de una red. Las bases de datos de matrices prefabricadas ya no son necesarias; por lo tanto, el programa puede ser utilizado fácilmente por historiadores que no se han formado en las ciencias sociales. Los dos casos incluyen el análisis de una estructura familiar en la historia antigua y las redes ego-centradas de judíos que se escondían durante el Nacional-Socialismo. Artumentamos que una representación visual de las relaciones sociales ayuda a revelar modelos invisibles y caracerísticas de las redes que ofrecen a los investigadores nuevas perspectivas sobre sus temas de investigación. El programa ofrece una variedad de herramientas para representar las relaciones sociales y su desarrollo a lo largo del tiempo y del espacio. Abstract: This paper explores the applicability of the software VennMaker to historical research. The paper draws on two case studies from current network-oriented historical research projects, covering different time periods and sources. VennMaker’s biggest advantage is that it inverts the process of data collection. While traditional software uses pre-coded data to produce a network map, VennMaker generates data while the researcher draws nodes and creates a network map. Prefabricated data matrices are no longer necessary; therefore, the software can easily be used by historians lacking training in the social sciences. Our two cases include an analysis of a family structure in ancient history and ego-networks of Jews in hiding during National Socialism. We argue that a visual representation of social relations helps to reveal unseen patterns and characteristics of networks therefore offering scholars new perspectives on their research subjects. The software offers a variety of tools to represent social relations and their development over time and space.

Este texto, derivado de una ponencia en una conferencia, es un informe preliminar de un proyecto a larga escala para trazar las transformaciones en las estructuras de las redes de la élite florentina a lo largo de dos siglos. En este artículo me limito únicamente a la descripción de tendencias anteriores, desconocidas en modelos amplios, de los matrimonios cruzados florentinos. Los lectores informados verán inmediatamente que dichas tendencias tienen implicaciones importantes para los debates en la historiografía florentina (que desarrollaré más adelante). En último término, estoy interesado en las implicaciones políticas de las tendencias aquí descritas. Pero por ahora no entro en una interpretación, explicación o argumentación. Trataré únicamente de mostrar hechos nuevos. Abstract: This conference paper is an interim report from a large-scale project to trace transformations in Florentine elite network structures over two centuries. In this paper, I confine myself solely to a description of previously unknown trends in broad patterns of Florentine inter-marriage. Knowledgeable readers will immediately see that these trends have important implications for debates in Florentine historiography (which I will develop in the future). Ultimately, I am primarily interested in the political implications of the trends I herein describe. But for now I do not engage in interpretation, explanation, or argumentation. I intend simply to lay out some new facts.

Este texto pretende mostrar cómo la utilización de métodos, de conceptos y de análisis sobre las redes sociales pueden ser útiles en el estudio del principio de la Edad Media. Para reconstruir una « red personal » en este periodo, este artículo pone de manifiesto primero varias dificultades : la falta de fuentes, la selección y uso de documentos adecuados, la identifiacion clara de redes aristocráticas así como consideraciones sobre la construcción de redes que evolucionan en el tiempo. Se propone utilizar teorías y métodos tomados prestados de la sociología y se muestra un estudio de caso: la red personal de Odon de Cluny, un miembro importante de la aristocracia que también era abad del monasterio francés de Cluny entre 926 y 942. Ese caso sirve de ejemplo significativo para ilustrar como funcionaban las redes sociales en la sociedad de la Alta Edad Media. Abstract: This paper intends to show how the use of methods, concepts and analysis pertaining to social networks may be relevant to the study of early Middle Ages. In order to retrace a “personal network” for this period, the study first points out several difficulties: the lack of sources, the selection and use of proper documents, the sole identification of aristocratic networks, and the long-term considerations of the networks’ construction. The paper then uses sociological theories and methods in a case study, that of the personal network of Odo of Cluny, an important member of the aristocracy who was also abbot of the French monastery of Cluny, between 926 and 942. This case serves as a perfect example of how social networks worked in the early medieval society.

This conference paper is an interim report from a large-scale project to trace transformations in Florentine elite network structures over two centuries. In this paper, I confine myself solely to a description of previously unknown trends in broad patterns of Florentine inter-marriage. Knowledgeable readers will immediately see that these trends have important implications for debates in Florentine historiography (which I will develop in the future). Ultimately, I am primarily interested in the political implications of the trends I herein describe. But for now I do not engage in interpretation, explanation, or argumentation. I intend simply to lay out some new facts.

This paper explores the applicability of the software VennMaker to historical research. The paper draws on two case studies from current network-oriented historical research projects, covering different time periods and sources. VennMaker’s biggest advantage is that it inverts the process of data collection. While traditional software uses pre-coded data to produce a network map, VennMaker generates data while the researcher draws nodes and creates a network map. Prefabricated data matrices are no longer necessary; therefore, the software can easily be used by historians lacking training in the social sciences. Our two cases include an analysis of a family structure in ancient history and ego-networks of Jews in hiding during National Socialism. We argue that a visual representation of social relations helps to reveal unseen patterns and characteristics of networks therefore offering scholars new perspectives on their research subjects. The software offers a variety of tools to represent social relations and their development over time and space.

High school students can select class mates for new friendships using a repertoire of patterns. They can actively pursue new friendships, make use of the existing network structure, and/ or use the scarce and often erroneous information about candidates. In this theoretical paper, we argue that such selection patterns should not be studied as the result of general rules, as is usually done in social network studies. Specifically, we state that network size preferences, the level of information about individual attributes of fellow classmates, and group membership are likely to differ among high school students, and that as a result, also their selection patterns are likely to be different. In this paper we sketch the theoretical articulations between these.

El presente trabajo analiza los patrones de colaboración en España, de los investigadores en historia de la ciencia, a través de un análisis de coautoría en las publicaciones científicas del área, recogidas en las bases de datos Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) y Science Citation Index (SCI) durante el período 1990-2009. Los resultados permiten detectar un aumento de la producción científica a lo largo del periodo y una escasa colaboración científica, ya que solamente el 18,61% del total de los trabajos han sido firmados por más de un autor. Abstract: This paper analyzes the patterns of cooperation in Spain researchers in history of science, through an analysis of co-authorship in scientific publications in the area, contained in the databases Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) and Science Citation Index (SCI) for the period 1990-2009. The results show an increase in scientific output over a limited period and scientific collaboration, as only 18,61% of the papers have been signed by more than one author.

Resumen El artículo analiza comparativamente las redes personales de los inmigrantes argentinos, dominicanos, marroquíes y senegaleses/gambianos en Cataluña, España. Su objetivo es identificar los vínculos entre las variables de estructura y composición de estas redes, con los procesos de integración de los inmigrantes en la sociedad receptora. Finalmente, se analiza las dinámicas que desarrollan las redes personales y la relación de sus procesos de cambio interno con los procesos de transnacionalismo con la sociedad de origen. Abstract This paper analyzes, in comparative way, the personal networks of Argentinian, Dominican, Moroccan and Senegambian immigrants in Catalonia, Spain. The main objetive is to analyze relations structure and composition, and their relatios with the process of insertion of the immigrants in the destination society. This is possible by the development of new indicator. In the same way, this paper it also analyzes the strong processes of change in the structure and composition of the personal networks of the immigrants.

Resumen Este artículo pretende retomar los planteamientos de Giddens de la doble hermenéutica como fundamento epistemológico para resolver la tensión entre metodologías estructurales cuantitativas como el análisis de redes sociales y el uso de representaciones sociales y lenguaje para entender la realidad social desde metodologías cualitativas. Esto involucra la discusión de la relación entre análisis cualitativo y cuantitativo. Estos debates no han resuelto esta tensión más allá de la complementariedad en la aplicación técnica de instrumento para la recolección de información. Este artículo prentende realizar un aporte a estos planteamientos. Abstract This paper pretends to get Giddens concept’s double hermenutic. This will solve the tension between structural methodologies like network analysis and the use of social representations and language to understand the social reality. This involves the discussion of relationship between qualitative and quantitative analysis. These debates don’t have resolve that tension beyond the complementary thecnical aplication of instruments for recolect information. This paper pretends to make a new output way for that discussion.

Resumen En este trabajo se presenta una metodología de análisis de las relaciones industriales y de los sistemas productivos basada en el análisis de redes sociales, y en los conceptos de embeddedness (Granovetter, 1973), sistema productivo (Wilkinson, 1985) y capital social. Tras el examen y discusión de esta perspectiva metodológica, se realiza una aplicación al estudio de las relaciones industriales en el País Vasco (España). La aplicación del análisis de redes sociales en la investigación económica se encuentra todavía en una fase mucho menos avanzada que en otros ámbitos de las ciencias sociales, como la psicología, la antropología o la sociología. Esto obedece, principalmente, a que el paradigma neoclásico, que es la corriente dominante de la economía, no considera relevantes ni el carácter social ni el carácter relacional de los agentes, a pesar de que todas las corrientes de la economía asumen su pertenencia al campo de las ciencias sociales. En este trabajo las relaciones constituyen el centro del análisis y son consideradas en un sistema productivo concreto, delimitado desde la perspectiva geográfica, económica e histórica. El concepto de sistema productivo contempla no sólo las relaciones mercantiles que tienen lugar entre las empresas, que son utilizadas para identificar los sistemas de producción, sino también las no mercantiles. Estas relaciones también se establecen con otros tipos de instituciones tales como parques tecnológicos, institutos de investigación o universidades. También las relaciones informales entre los actores deben ser incluidas, junto a las relaciones formales, para analizar un sistema productivo completo. El análisis de la estructura relacional se realiza considerando su contexto, es decir, contemplando sus características geográficas, históricas y sociales, que ayudan a comprender mejor sus características. Abstract This paper discuss a methodology to analyse industrial relationships based on social network analysis and on the concepts of embeddedness (Granovetter, 1973), productive system (Wilkinson, 1985) and social capital. Once the perspective is discussed it is applied to study industrial relationships in the Basque Country (Spain). The application of the social network analysis to economic research is at the moment at its initial stages, although it has been widely applied in sociology and psychology. The dominance of the neoclassical mainstream paradigm in economics, based on principles and developing theories that do not consider as relevant the social and relational character of agents and systems, is among the main reasons. However, all the perspectives, even the neoclassical, assume that economics is a social science. In this paper relationships are the focus of the analysis and they are considered for a particular productive system, geographically and historically specified. The concept of productive system is understood by considering mercantile and non-mercantile relationships among the firms constituting a particular industrial sector. Moreover, relationships are linking firms, and economic sectors at a more macro level, with other types of institutions such as technology parks, research institutes and universities. At the same time, informal relationships among actors should also be included, together with the formal links, to analyse a complete productive system. The whole relational structure is analysed considering its context, and therefore allowing for the consideration of geographical, historical and social peculiarities, that are necessary for a better understanding of its characteristics.

This paper analyzes the patterns of cooperation in Spain researchers in history of science, through an analysis of co-authorship in scientific publications in the area, contained in the databases Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) and Science Citation Index (SCI) for the period 1990-2009. The results show an increase in scientific output over a limited period and scientific collaboration, as only 18,61% of the papers have been signed by more than one author.

High school students can select class mates for new friendships using a repertoire of patterns. They can actively pursue new friendships, make use of the existing network structure, and/ or use the scarce and often erroneous information about candidates. In this theoretical paper, we argue that such selection patterns should not be studied as the result of general rules, as is usually done in social network studies. Specifically, we state that network size preferences, the level of information about individual attributes of fellow classmates, and group membership are likely to differ among high school students, and that as a result, also their selection patterns are likely to be different. In this paper we sketch the theoretical articulations between these.

This paper analyzes, in comparative way, the personal networks of Argentinian, Dominican, Moroccan and Senegambian immigrants in Catalonia, Spain. The main objetive is to analyze relations structure and composition, and their relatios with the process of insertion of the immigrants in the destination society. This is possible by the development of new indicator. In the same way, this paper it also analyzes the strong processes of change in the structure and composition of the personal networks of the immigrants

This paper presents three different types of tendencies about third sector. This tendencies could be deduce in a network analysis based on interorganizational theories and resource dependence theory. This paper presents two study cases made at Medellin-Colombia. This show some categories that constitute characteristic tendencies of the sector.

This paper pretends to get Giddens concept’s double hermenutic. This will solve the tension between structural methodologies like network analysis and the use of social representations and language to understand the social reality. This involves the discussion of relationship between qualitative and quantitative analysis. These debates don’t have resolve that tension beyond the complementary thecnical aplication of instruments for recolect information. This paper pretends to make a new output way for that discussion.

This paper discuss a methodology to analyse industrial relationships based on social network analysis and on the concepts of embeddedness (Granovetter, 1973), productive system (Wilkinson, 1985) and social capital. Once the perspective is discussed it is applied to study industrial relationships in the Basque Country (Spain).The application of the social network analysis to economic research is at the moment at its initial stages, although it has been widely applied in sociology and psychology. The dominance of the neoclassical mainstream paradigm in economics, based on principles and developing theories that do not consider as relevant the social and relational character of agents and systems, is among the main reasons. However, all the perspectives, even the neoclassical, assume that economics is a social science.In this paper relationships are the focus of the analysis and they are considered for a particular productive system, geographically and historically specified. The concept of productive system is understood by considering mercantile and non-mercantile relationships among the firms constituting a particular industrial sector. Moreover, relationships are linking firms, and economic sectors at a more macro level, with other types of institutions such as technology parks, research institutes and universities. At the same time, informal relationships among actors should also be included, together with the formal links, to analyse a complete productive system. The whole relational structure is analysed considering its context, and therefore allowing for the consideration of geographical, historical and social peculiarities, that are necessary for a better understanding of its characteristics.

Resumen Este artículo analiza las redes de relaciones sociales en la comunidad japonesa en la Argentina combinando un doble abordaje. A nivel micro analítico se explora la relación entre la construcción de una identidad étnica y la participación activa en asociaciones de migrantes, desde una perspectiva individual y subjetiva. A nivel meso analítico se abordan las relaciones de coparticipación entre distintas asociaciones del grupo, examinando las orientaciones de cada una de estas en relación al grupo, a la sociedad de acogida, a otras comunidades emigradas del Japón, y al Japón mismo, tomandolas en tanto construcciones de un capital social diferenciado. Este estudio se basa en el trabajo de campo realizado entre los años 2005 y 2012, que consta de entrevistas a miembros del grupo, observaciones participantes y análisis de medios informativos editados por el grupo durante el año 2007. Abstract This paper analyses at two levels the social network of the Japanese community residing in Argentina. In a micro analytic level, it explores the link between the ethnic identity construction process and the individual involvement in the group´s ethnic organizations, from a subjective perspective. On the meso level, this research examines the co-participation connections among Argentinean Japanese ethnic organizations in order to reveal the social capital each of them constructs and the orientation they develop towards the group, the broader society, other Japanese communities and Japan itself. This research is based on empirical data collected between the years 2005 and 2012 trough semi-structured interviews to Japanese immigrants and Japanese’s descendants participating in ethnic organizations, participant observations, and the analysis of group´s newspapers during the year 2007.

O presente artigo analisou os conselhos editoriais de periódicos brasileiros a partir da noção de prestígio e da hipótese da onipresença subjacente às características de estratificação no campo científico. A amostra compreendeu 41 periódicos da área de Administração listados no sistema brasileiro de classificação de periódicos (Qualis/Capes). Assim, considerando-se as múltiplas afiliações de pesquisadores em conselhos editoriais, construímos a rede de relações entre periódicos e analisamos sua associação com indicadores de impacto e de qualidade atestada pelo sistema Qualis. Os resultados evidenciaram que periódicos com conselhos editoriais centralmente posicionados na estrutura de rede tenderam a ser mais bem avaliados no sistema Qualis e apresentaram maior percentual de citação. Concluímos o artigo discutindo aspectos ligados ao cerimonialismo presente na atividade do conselho editorial, tendo em vista o fato de que seu papel extrapola a atividade técnica de editoria, vinculando-se ao controle interno da ciência quanto à disseminação e certificação do conhecimento científico. Abstract: This paper investigates the notion of prestige in editorial boards of Brazilian academic journals. It considers the ubiquity underlying the stratification characteristics of the scientific field. The sample included 41 journals in the business area, listed on the Brazilian system of journal classification (Qualis/Capes). We consider researchers’ multiple memberships on editorial boards in order to map out the network among journals. Hence, by the means of network indicators we explore their relations with journal impact factor and quality certified by the Qualis system. The results showed a significant relationship between the position of editorial boards in the network structure and the ranking classification as measured by impact factor and Qualis systems. We conclude discussing the ceremonial aspects of editorial board. We argue that the role they played by editorial boards goes beyond the technical function of publishing, to be linked to their action as science gatekeepers

Este artículo explora algunas posibilidades de la visualización de redes egocéntricas como herramienta metodológica para realizar entrevistas cualitativas y para la evaluación de programas de Formación y Empleo. Se describe un estudio de casos de adolescentes en riesgo de exclusión que han iniciado su transición hacia el primer empleo en un recurso de formación y empleo del Ayuntamiento de Sevilla: los Talleres Prelaborales de la zona norte. La visualización se revela como una técnica metodológica capaz de aportar abundante información cualitativa sobre sus pautas relacionales y sus actitudes ante el empleo, además de reforzar las habilidades adquiridas en los Talleres. A partir de la percepción que los y las jóvenes tienen de sus redes egocéntricas, se refuerzan aspectos cognitivos que potencian su desarrollo personal, revelándose la utilidad del ARS para una mejor comprensión y una potenciación de las transiciones hacia un mercado de trabajo que presenta un fuerte cierre social ante este colectivo vulnerable. Abstract: Personal network visualization appears as an effective method to carry out qualitative interviews and also is proper to evaluate training and employment programs. This is the main argument of this paper that describes a case study focused on female and male teenagers in risk of social exclusion, when they are making the transition to the first job (in an employment resource organized by the City Council). Visualization offers a lot of qualitative information about teenagers` relationships, their attitudes to employment, and also is a good way to reaffirm personal abilities acquired in Pre-labour Workshops. The cognitive dimensions for personal development are improved by their own perceptions of personal networks. Social Network Analysis reveals its utility for understanding and bettering the transition to the labour market, which presents a strong social closure for this especially vulnerable young people.

Siguiendo el trabajo previo sobre la importancia que han tenido las redes sociales para la supervivencia económica y social del funcionariado de clase media latinoamericano y soviético, este artículo explora el papel de las redes sociales (las conexiones) en el proceso de privatización y liberalización del mercado en la Hungría post-comunista. Nos basamos en estudios académicos precedentes y en trabajo de campo desarrollado durante varios meses en Budapest para mostrar que las redes sociales son estructuras intermediarias centrales en las que los individuos y los grupos construyen soluciones que les permiten sobrellevar las deficiencias del sistema formal. Desde esta perspectiva, exploraremos la importancia de las conexiones entre gerentes durante el primer periodo de privatizaciones en Hungría, conocido como “privatización espontanea”. Abstract: Following previous research on the significance that social networks have had for the economic and social survival of Latin American and Soviet state-employed middle classes, this paper explores the role of social networks (connections) on the process of privatization and market liberalization of Post-Communist Hungary. Based on former academic studies and on field research conducted for several months in Budapest, we will try to show that social networks are central intermediary structures on which individuals and groups construct solutions that allow them to cope with the deficiencies resulting from the formal system. From this perspective we will explore the importance of manager’s connections in the first period of the Hungarian privatization process known as “spontaneous privatization”.

Este trabajo propone la aplicación del análisis exploratorio de redes para el estudio del reclutamiento de la jerarquía eclesiástica, particularmente el episcopado, en la España del Antiguo Régimen. Se parte de la identificación de los actores que colaboraban con el arzobispo de Toledo en su servicio personal o en su acción de gobierno, se exponen sus trayectorias personales y se muestran, en conclusión, procesos de cooptación en el episcopado español entre los siglos XVIII y XIX. Abstract: This paper proposes the utilization of social network analysis in the research of upper clerical recruitment in Spain during the Old Regime. For that purpose, social actors that collaborated with the archbishop in his personal service or in the goverment of the archbishopric have been identified, their subsequent careers have been described and, finally, a process of self-recruitment of the Spanish episcopate has been detected.

El siguiente texto, salido de una ponencia de conferencia y escrito en 1994 es el primer borrador de un artículo publicado en 2010 en Renaissance Quarterly y llamado “Open Elite? Social Mobility, Marriage, and Family in Florence, 1282-1494.” Esta introducción debate las justificaciones metodológicas para publicar un primer borrador, escrito seis años antes del artículo final, más sofisticado. Al descubrir algunos de los pasos del proceso de investigación permite examinar la relación entre los dos estilos de “interpretación” en la historia y el “test de hipótesis” en ciencias sociales. Abstract: The following conference paper, written in 1994, is the first draft of an article eventually published in 2010 in Renaissance Quarterly, entitled “Open Elite? Social Mobility, Marriage, and Family in Florence, 1282-1494.” This introduction discusses the methodological justifications for publishing a first draft, written sixteen years before the final, more sophisticated article. By unveiling some steps of the actual process of research, it allows a discussion of the relationships between the two styles of “interpretation” in history and “testing hypotheses” in social science.

The following conference paper, written in 1994, is the first draft of an article eventually published in 2010 in Renaissance Quarterly, entitled “Open Elite? Social Mobility, Marriage, and Family in Florence, 1282-1494.” This introduction discusses the methodological justifications for publishing a first draft, written sixteen years before the final, more sophisticated article. By unveiling some steps of the actual process of research, it allows a discussion of the relationships between the two styles of “interpretation” in history and “testing hypotheses” in social science.

Following previous research on the significance that social networks have had for the economic and social survival of Latin American and Soviet state-employed middle classes, this paper explores the role of social networks (connections) on the process of privatization and market liberalization of Post-Communist Hungary. Based on former academic studies and on field research conducted for several months in Budapest, we will try to show that social networks are central intermediary structures on which individuals and groups construct solutions that allow them to cope with the deficiencies resulting from the formal system. From this perspective we will explore the importance of manager’s connections in the first period of the Hungarian privatization process known as “spontaneous privatization”.

Este trabajo es una revisión de una definición de capital social que conecta la estructura topológica de las redes sociales -donde los individuos están insertos- con los recursos disponibles para dichos individuos en tales redes. El capital social, tal como aquí se defiende, consiste en una serie de recursos que los individuos pueden obtener a partir de las estructuras de las redes sociales. Dos de los recursos más importantes son la información que fluye por las redes y las obligaciones de reciprocidad que pueden generarse de la confianza mutua entre los agentes de la misma red. Ambos aspectos del capital social -información y reciprocidad- están íntimamente relacionados con la estructura de las redes: por un lado, el flujo de información depende de ciertas configuraciones estructurales (brokerage) caracterizadas por bajas longitudes de paso; y, por otro lado, las obligaciones de reciprocidad dependen de otras distribuciones estructurales (closure) determinadas por altos coeficientes de clustering. Abstract: This paper is a review of a definition of social capital that relates the topological structure of social networks, in which individuals are embedded, to the resources available to individuals in such networks. Social capital, as defined here, consists of a series of resources that individuals can obtain from the structure of social networks. Two of the most important resources are information flowing through networks and obligations of reciprocity which can come out of the mutual confidence between agents in the same network. Both aspects of social capital – information and reciprocity- are closely related to the structure of networks: firstly, the flow of information depends on certain structural configurations (brokerage) characterized by low path length; and, secondly, the obligations of reciprocity depend on other structural distributions (closure) characterized by high clustering coefficient.

En el análisis de redes personales, la oposición entre redes bonding y bridging ha estado en el centro de varias de las hipótesis que relacionan la estructura de las redes con el apoyo disponible en ellas. La densidad ha sido uno de los indicadores más recurrentes para medir las redes bonding o close-knit dada su facilidad de operacionalización e interpretación. Con todo, el ajuste de la densidad como medida del carácter bonding o bridging de las redes no ha sido contrastado con una muestra amplia y aleatoria de redes personales con un número de contactos mayor al de las sub-redes de apoyo o de confianza. Usando una muestra de 433 redes personales de 30 Alteri cada una, este artículo explora la correlación entre ladensidad, el apoyo expresivo intercambiado y la posición de clase de los Ego en el contexto de la estructura social catalana. Los resultados sugieren que la densidad sería mejor comprendida como una variable dependiente de la estabilidad y las transiciones vitales reflejadas en las redes personales puesto que su relación con el apoyo inscrito en las redes es débil. Abstract: In personal network analysis, the opposition between bonding and bridging networks has been at the core of most hypotheses relating network structure and support embedded in it. Due to its ease of operationalization and interpretation, density has been one of the most common indicators used for measuring bonding or close-knit networks. Nevertheless, the reliability of density as a measure of bonding networks has never been contrasted against a large and random sample of personal networks containing contacts beyond the support sub-network. Using a large sample of ego-centred networks (n=433) of 30 alteri each, this paper explores the correlation between density, expressive support exchanged, and Ego's class position within the Catalan social structure. Results suggest that density should preferably be used as a dependent variable related to stability and life transitions reflected in personal networks since it's relationship with support embedded in a personal network is weak.

El objetivo de este artículo consiste en mostrar algunas de las posibilidades de análisis que ofrecen las redes Ego-centradas en lo que se refiere a la Cohesión, Vinculación e Integración social. El artículo indaga en ellas haciendo una propuesta de operativización de dichos conceptos y de análisis a partir de un caso de aplicación. Los datos empleados en los ejemplos ilustrativos de los conceptos provienen de una encuesta de redes Ego-centradas realizada en Catalunya. Abstract: The objective of these papers consists to showing some possibilities of analysis Ego-net about social Cohesion, Linking and Integration. A proposal is done in order to analyze these concepts. The data used in the illustrative examples of the concepts come from a survey of Ego-centered networks in Catalonia.

En este artículo se pretende aplicar el enfoque del Capital Social al estudio de las Trayectorias Laborales de la población que reside en Cataluña. Esta aplicación se realiza a través de dos planteamientos o perspectivas. La primera se centra en las características atributivas que configuran el entorno laboral de la población estudiada. A través de esta perspectiva se identifican los tipos de Trayectorias Laborales que se dan tanto en la población autóctona como en la población inmigrante. La segunda perspectiva se centra en las características relativas al entorno relacional de esta población desde una visión puramente reticular. Esta segunda visión se lleva a cabo a partir del estudio de las redes personales de la población autóctona e inmigrante. La articulación de estas dos perspectivas a partir del tratamiento de dos bases de datos de diferente naturaleza y la aplicación de los elementos que constituyen el enfoque del Capital Social nos permite aproximarnos al papel que juegan las relaciones entendidas como recurso en el marco de la experiencia laboral y en el contexto del mercado de trabajo catalán. Para finalizarse identifican los mecanismos relacionales que actúan en este proceso de trayectoria en términos de Cohesión e Integración Social. Estos mecanismos se hacen operativos a partir del estudio de las relaciones de tipo Bonding Social Capitaly Bridging Social Capital. Abstract: This paper attempts to apply the Social Capital approach to the study of the Labour Market Careers of the population residing in Catalonia. This application is done through two approaches or perspectives. The first one focuses on the attributive characteristics that shape the working environment of the population. Through this perspective we identify types of Labour Market Careers that are given both in the autochthonous and the immigrant population. The second one tries to analyze the relational environment of this population from a purely reticular vision. This second view is held by studying the configuration of personal networks. The articulation of these two views and the application of the elements that constitute the Social Capital approach allow us to come closer to the role of relations considered asresources in the context of working experience and in the context of Catalan labour market. Finally, we identify the relational mechanisms acting in this career process in terms of Social Cohesion and Integration. These mechanisms become operative through the study of Bonding Social Capital and Bridging Social Capital types of relations.

El objetivo de este artículo consiste en identificar, definir y engranar en un modelo unificado conceptos tales como Interacción-relación, Capital social y otros Capitales; Cohesión, Vinculación e Integración sociales; Bonding, Bridging y Linking desde una perspectiva de redes sociales. Estos conceptos que tienen entidad propia han sido estudiados bien de manera independiente bien apareados. Además, relacionada con estos conceptos, existe una constelación de otros muchos como por ejemplo solidaridad, confianza, roles, valores comunes, reciprocidad, exclusión, inclusión y segregación. Estos conceptos se resitúan en el modelo conceptual propuesto. Abstract: The aim of this paper is to identify, define and engage in a unified model related concepts such as interaction, social capital and other capitals, Cohesion and Integration Linking social Bonding, Bridging and Linking and Social Networks from the perspective of social networks. These concepts have been studied in its own right independently or paired. In addition, related to these concepts there is a constellation of many others such as solidarity, trust, roles, shared values, reciprocity, exclusion, inclusion, segregation that are being repositioned in the proposed conceptual model.

The paper addresses irreversible cooperation in research partnerships. It analyzes longitudinal data from various contracts signed by research units of the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), and companies or public organizations. The contracts signed between 1986 and 2005 are short term ones, which conveys an impression of volatility. But collaboration does not take the same form for laboratories and companies. In the case of laboratory matching, loyalty is an issue as far as contract renewal is concerned. Finally, Social Network Analysis helps understanding similarities between the contracts signed by several big companies with research units, and confirms that “small scientific worlds” do exist.

El presente trabajo forma parte de una investigación más amplia, en la cual se busca analizar:1) el impacto que el conocimiento generado y transferido hacia el sector acuícola tiene sobre el desarrollo regional y; 2) conocer en qué medida los procesos interactivos y la construcción de redes han dado lugar a la conformación de un capital social basado en conocimiento para el sector acuícola en el noroeste de México. El enfoque teórico-conceptual de esta investigación incorpora diversos planteamientos derivados de cuatro marcos analíticos: a) el de redes de conocimiento; b) el enfoque del capital social, c) el de los sistemas regionales de innovación y, d) aspectos relacionados a la idea de sociedades basadas en conocimiento. A través de una estrategia metodología basadas en estudio de casos, se analizan procesos específicos de generación y transferencia de conocimiento científico y tecnológico en el sector acuícola, cuando estos son resultado de interacciones entre diversos actores a nivel regional y local. En particular, se identifican las interacciones que son resultado de la colaboración que se promueven entre las instituciones académicas (centros, institutos e instituciones de educación superior), con otros sectores de la sociedad (gobierno, unidades productivas sociales y privadas). Abstract: AbstractAbstractThis paper is part of a wider research, which attempts to analyze: 1) the impact that the knowledge generated and transferred over to the acqua-culture sector has on regional development and; 2) to learn to what degree the interactive processes and the creation of networks have given place to the conformation of a social capital based in knowledge for this sector in Mexico’s North West. This research’s theoretical-conceptual focus incorporates diverse approaches derived from four analytical frames. A) Knowledge networks; b) social capital; c) regional innovation systems and, d) aspects related to the idea of societies based on knowledge. Through a methodological strategy based on case study, specific processes for the generation and transfer of scientific and technological knowledge were analyzed within that sector, when these were the result of the interaction of diverse regional and local actors. Specifically, the identified interactions were those that resulted from the collaboration between academic institutions (Research Centers, Institutes or Higher Education Institutions) and others sectors (Government, units of social and private production).

El presente texto detalla el modelo teórico de actor de la aproximación llamada "interaccionismo estructural" para el análisis de redes sociales, así como sus implicaciones de cara al método de obtención de datos y de análisis de los mismos. Se distinguen los dos grandes métodos: sociocéntrico y egocéntrico, derivados de la tradición histórica del estudio de las redes sociales (Moreno y Barnes). A modo de ilustración, se aplica dicha aproximación a los modelos de comprensión de la difusión y prevención del sida. Abstract: This paper presents the theoretical model of the "structural interactionism" approach for the analysis of social networks. The implications of this theoretical approach on methods of data gathering and data analysis are explored. Two general methods derived from the historical tradition of the study of social networks (Moreno and Barnes) are distinguished: sociocentric and egocentric methods. To illustrate the "structural interactionist" approach and its implications, the model is applied to the comprehension of the diffusion of AIDS and its prevention

Este artículo resume una parte de nuestro trabajo sobre las redes de apoyo social de los inmigrantes. En él se combina una recopilación de algunos de los resultados de investigación más significativos con la formulación de argumentos de carácter hipotético, aunque basados en las evidencias previas. Para ello desarrollamos tres contenidos fundamentales. Primero, presentamos brevemente el concepto de apoyo social. En segundo lugar, revisamos –con población inmigrante- algunas de las dimensiones de dicho concepto, tales como la multiplicidad de los proveedores, lo sintercambios de ayuda, el contexto colectivo de las cadenas migratorias, etcétera. Finalmente, en tercer lugar, proponemos una clasificación de los tipos de redes de apoyo de los inmigrantes con menos de diez años de residencia en España. Abstract: This paper summarises part of our work concerning social support networks among immigrants. It combines a compilation of some of our most significant findings with the formulation of hypothetical arguments that are based on previous evidence. We shall develop three main points: first, we shall briefly present the concept of social support; second, we shall review—with immigrant populations—some dimensions of this concept, such as the multiplicity of providers, help exchanges, and the collective context of migration chains; finally, we shall propose a classification of the types of support chains involving immigrants with less than ten years of residence in Spain.

A través de un análisis de los resultados obtenidos en la Web of Science con la expresión “social network*”, la revista Social Networks y la Revista REDES, se proporciona una visión de conjunto de la investigación en este campo. Además, basándose en las investigaciones en marcha sobre redes personales se argumenta la característica dual de las redes sociales, característica que permite un nuevo tratamiento de la dualidad micro-macro y de la cualitativa-cuantitativa. Abstract: After the query “social network*” in the Web of Science, the articles published in the Journals Social Networks and REDES this paper provides a general overview of this field of research. Moreover, with data about personal networks from the research projects in progress, it is argued that networks exhibit a dual nature that allows a new perspective about the dualities micro-macro and qualitative-quantitative.

Se presenta un novedoso enfoque de aplicación para el Análisis de Redes Sociales (ARS) dentro del campo de Estudios sobre Innovación, desde una perspectiva de Sistemas Complejos, para intervenir en el diseño e implementación de políticas de aprendizaje para la innovación, en países poco innovadores. Dos términos son introducidos, sistema de aprendizaje para la innovación y micro red de actividades intradiada, con el fin de integrar la noción teleológica dentro del ARS. Es ilustrado con un ejercicio de aplicación a nivel micro (organizacional) para un problema de planeación estratégica de la universidad pública: la falta de vinculación de sus organismos de investigación con el sector productivo. Se presenta un marco conceptual para el diseño de una herramienta de evaluación institucional que permita captar la aptitud de vinculación actual y la percepción de la visión en este tipo de organizaciones (fuerzas y debilidades). El objetivo es introducir buenas prácticas de vinculación y así, eventualmente favorecer la articulación de un sistema de transición de aprendizaje para la innovación. La congruencia en el diseño de la herramienta de evaluación (cuestionario) para vincular el quien con el cómo y el para qué, es ilustrada con una muestra de preguntas. Algunas implicaciones de esta propuesta son discutidas, tanto desde el punto de vista de la planeación estratégica como del ARS. Abstract: This paper presents a novel approach of application for Social Nertwork Analysis (SNA) into the field of Innovation Studies from a Complex Systems view, with the aim to intervene in the design and implementation of learning for innovation policy, in less innovative countries. Two terms are introduced, learning system for innovation and micro-network of activities intra-dyad, in order to integrate the teleological notion into the SNA. It is illustrated with a micro-level exercise (institutional performance evaluation of a R&D Centre) for a public university strategic problem: the lack of links of their research organizations with the productive sector. A conceptual framework is presented for the design of an institutional evaluation tool to catch the linkage aptitude and vision in this type of organizations (strengths and weaknesses), with the aim to intervene for the change, in order to increase the linkage potentiality, and so, eventually increase the potentiality to articulate a Learning for Innovation Transition System. The congruence in the design of the evaluation tool (questionnaire) to tie in the who with the how and the what for (the strategic objectives of the organization), is illustrated with a sample of questions. Some implications of this proposal are argued, either from the point of view of strategic planning as from the SNA.

Este trabajo analiza las propiedades sistémicas de las interacciones en las redes de gobernanza. Se identifican cuatro propiedades básicas: la autonomía individual de los participantes, la autonomía política de la red, la interdependencia de sus componentes y el dinamismo. También se analizan cuatro mecanismos y procesos para la integración y toma de decisiones: la confianza, la traducción, la negociación y la deliberación. Se concluye que para funcionar adecuadamente, las redes de benlograr un delicado equilibrio entre estos cuatro elementos. Abstract: This paper analyzes the systemic properties of the interaction that takes place in governance networks. We identify four basic properties: individual autonomy of participants, political autonomy of the network, interdependence of its members, and dynamism. We also analyze four integrative and decision-making mechanisms and processes: trust, translation, negotiation and deliberation. Our main conclusion is that to function adequately, networks must achieve a delicate balance amongthese four elements.

El análisis de redes sociales es una herramienta que se usa cada vez más para determinar las relaciones entre los diferentes elementos bibliográficos que componen un trabajo científico. Desde tiempo atrás, las asociaciones entre coautores y entre sus instituciones y países de adscripción, se toman como una formar de medir las colaboraciones en ciencia. En nuestra presentación examinamos cómo el análisis de redes sociales se emplea para lograr una interpretación más acertada de estas relaciones tomando como ejemplo las colaboraciones bilaterales entre los países latinoamericanos. Abstract: Social network analysis is a tool used increasingly by bibliometricians to determine the relationships between the different bibliographical elements present in a scientific paper. The associations between coauthors or between the institutions or countries they represent, have long been used as an manifestation of collaboration in science. In this presentation we look at how social network analysis is employed to assist in the interpretation of these relationships using examples taken from our work on bilateral collaborations between countries in Latin America.

This paper analyses the influence of relations in biographic trajectories. It is based in a longitudinal analysis on the role of the family in the studies of 96 youth people after Secondary School. It analyses selection and influence processes, as well as the dynamics of relations in a context of biographical bifurcation. The role of relations and agency is also debated. The study emphasises the role of a shared history in the influence of relations on the biographical trajectory.

A análise do campo científico como uma rede social vem ampliando o entendimento das relações entre pesquisadores como atividade social. Além do significado dado pelos relacionamentos entre pares, questões estruturais emergem, fomentando explicações sobre como níveis sociais mais amplos condicionam as relações de co-autoria. Buscando contribuir para essa linha de estudos, o objetivo do presente artigo é analisar como as relações entre pesquisadores da área de administração da informação no Brasil são condicionadas pela imersão institucional e regional. Para tanto, foi utilizado o método da análise de redes sociais, mais especificamente a técnica de generalized blockmodels para testar modelos relacionais de homofilia e centro-periferia. Verificou-se que todos os modelos relacionados ao padrão de homofilia foram significativos e que o condicionamento devido à instituição foi mais homogêneo do que o decorrente das unidades federativas. Diferentemente do esperado, os padrões do tipo centro-periferia mostraram-se pouco significativos. Mas, pautando-se no resultado que foi significativo, verifica-se que existe algum mecanismo de seleção privilegiado por pesquisadores que fazem parte de algumas regiões, seja pelo acesso a recursos e informações, seja pela existência de programas mais tradicionais. Adicionalmente, o estudo aponta para implicações teóricas e práticas, destacando possibilidades de estudos futuros. Abstract: The analysis of a scientific field considering it as a social network has broadened the understanding of the relationships among researchers. In addition to the information obtained directly from the relationships among peers, structural issues emerge, providing explanations about how broad social connections condition co-authorship relationships. In an attempt to contribute to this research stream, the objective of this paper is to analyze how the relationships among researchers in the Information Management field in Brazil are conditioned by their working for the same universities or living in the same geographical area. In order to accomplish that, a social networks analysis method was used, more specifically the generalized blockmodels technique, in order to test homophily and core-periphery models. It was found that all homophily models were significant and that the conditioning due to belonging to the same university was stronger than that caused by living in the same area. Differently to what was expected, the core-periphery models proved little significant. Based on the results that were significant, one realizes that there are selection mechanisms that are used by researchers that live in some geographic areas, related to the access to resources and information or the existence of some more traditional postgraduate programs whose professors attract the collaboration of others. The results of the study have important practical and theoretical implications and provide several opportunities for further studies.

El objetivo del presente texto es proponer algunos elementos para un enfoque comprensivo de la influencia de las relaciones en las trayectorias biográficas. El análisis se apoya en los datos de un estudio longitudinal sobre el papel que desempeñan la familia y las redes en la perseverancia en los estudios, realizado con 96 jóvenes que inician su trayectoria postsecundaria. En lugar de abordar la influencia en términos de características sociales, o a partir de un enfoque estructural de las redes, proponemos aquí tratarla bajo el aspecto de las relaciones sociales y el sentido que toman éstas para los sujetos. Este enfoque permite examinar de qué manera se imbrican la influencia en la relación y la relación en la influencia, aclarar mejor ciertas dinámicas de las relaciones en un contexto de bifurcación biográfica, y esclarecer el papel que desempeñan las relaciones en la agencia de los individuos. También permite resaltar el papel importante que desempeña la historia compartida en la influencia de las relaciones sobre la trayectoria biográfica. Abstract: This paper analyses the influence of relations in biographic trajectories. It is based in a longitudinal analysis on the role of the family in the studies of 96 youth people after Secondary School. It analyses selection and influence processes, as well as the dynamics of relations in a context of biographical bifurcation. The role of relations and agency is also debated. The study emphasises the role of a shared history in the influence of relations on the biographical trajectory.

Resumen Objetivos: La calidad de la relación entre los familiares cuidadores y las personas dependientes con trastornos duales puede ejercer una gran influencia en el bienestar de los mismos y en los resultados del tratamiento, así como en el bienestar de los cuidadores y su implicación en el cuidado. Este trabajo analiza el impacto de los factores estresantes del cuidador y su bienestar en la calidad de la relación de los familiares cuidadores de mujeres que padecen trastornos de drogodependencia o trastornos mentales y de drogodependencia comórbidos. Métodos: En este estudio trasversal no experimental, se entrevistó a ochenta y dos mujeres bajo tratamiento por trastorno de drogodependencia (pacientes hospitalizadas y las ambulatorias) y el familiar o pareja que éstas mismas hayan elegido por su gran apoyo social. Se utilizó un modelo de superación del estrés para identificar los factores estresantes de los familiares cuidadores (conducta de los cuidados, grado de drogodependencia y problemas mentales) y el bienestar del cuidador (carga y sintomatología depresiva) en la percepción de los cuidadores acerca de la calidad de la relación que mantienen con la persona a la cuidan. Resultados: Los resultados a los que se llega a partir de los análisis de regresión múltiple, a través de 4 tipos de bienestar del cuidador, muestran que cuanto menores eran los problemas de drogodependencia de la persona dependiente, el apoyo hacia el cuidador era más acusado; mientras que los problemas de conducta de la dependiente y el hecho de que el cuidador fuera su pareja indicaban mayores niveles de agresividad hacia el cuidador. La clasificación de las dependientes según padecieran un trastorno dual o únicamente un trastorno de drogodependencia no indicó de manera significativa el apoyo recibido por el cuidador ni tampoco de la agresividad hacia el miembro de la familia. Conclusiones: Los resultados apuntan a que las intervenciones en los familiares cuidadores deben adaptarse de modo que puedan abarcar diferentes y, posiblemente, múltiples grupos de cuidadores, factores estresantes específicos y problemas de conducta de la persona dependiente. Abstract Objectives: The quality of relationship between family caregivers and care recipients with dual disorders can impact care recipients’ well-being and treatment outcomes as well as caregivers’ well-being and involvement in care. This paper examines the impact of caregiver stressors and well-being on relationship quality of family caregivers of women with substance use disorders or co-occurring substance and mental disorders. Methods: Eighty-two women receiving in-patient or out-patient substance abuse treatment and the family member/significant other, nominated by each woman, who provided her with the most social support, were interviewed in this nonexperimental cross-sectional study. A stresscoping model was utilized to identify the impact of family caregivers’ stressors (care recipient behavioral, substance abuse, and mental healthproblems) and caregiver well-being (burden and depressive symptomatology) on caregivers’ perceptions of the quality of their relationship with their care recipient. Results: Findings from multiple regression analyses, across four types of caregiver well-being, show that greater perceived support to the caregiver was predicted by fewer perceived care recipient substance abuse problems, whereas higher levels of undermining of the caregiver was predicted by greater care recipient behavioral problems and by the family caregiver being a significant other of the care recipient. Care recipient classification as having a current dual disorder as compared to a current substance use disorder only was not a significant predictor of perceived support given to the caregiver or of perceived undermining of the family member. Conclusions: The findings suggest interventions for family caregivers need to be tailored to address different and possibly multiple groups of caregivers, specific types of stressors, and care recipient behavioral problems.

Resumen En este artículo comparamos dos métodos para la estimación del tamaño de las redes personales utilizando una muestra representativa de Estados Unidos a nivel nacional. Ambos métodos se basan en la habilidad de las personas encuestadas para estimar el número de personas que conocen en subpoblaciones específicas de EE.UU. (ej.: diabéticos, nativo-americanos) y gente en categorías específicas de relación (ej.: familia inmediata, compañeros de trabajo). Los resultados muestran una remarcable similitud entre el tamaño medio de la red obtenido por ambos métodos (aproximadamente 291). Se obtuvieron resultados similares con una muestra nacional distinta. La tentativa de corroboración de nuestras estimaciones mediante una reproducción exacta de la encuesta entre un segmento de población propenso a tener redes más amplias (el clero), dio como resultado un tamaño medio de la red superior. Una investigación extensiva sobre la existencia de efectos de respuesta mostró algunas preferencias por usar ciertos números a la hora de realizar estimaciones, pero nada que afectase de forma significativa a la estimación de tamaño de la red más allá del 6 por ciento. Nuestra conclusión es que ambos métodos utilizados para la estimación del tamaño de las redes personales proporcionan resultados válidos y fiables del tamaño de la red real, pero quedan algunas cuestiones pendientes sobre la exactitud. Abstract In this paper we compare two methods for estimating the size of personal networks using a nationally representative sample of the United States. Both methods rely on the ability of respondents to estimate the number of people they know in specific subpopulations of the U.S. (e.g., diabetics, Native Americans) and people in particular relation categories (e.g., immediate family, coworkers). The results demonstrate a remarkable similarity between the average network size generated by both methods (approximately 291). Similar results were obtained with a separate national sample. An attempt to corroborate our estimates by replication among a population we suspect has large networks (clergy), yielded a larger average network size. Extensive investigation into the existence of response effects showed some preference for using certain numbers when making estimates, but nothing that would significantly affect the estimate of network size beyond about 6 percent. We conclude that both methods for estimating personal network size yield valid and reliable proxies for actual network size, but questions about accuracy remain.