Mobile and Social Networks

• In Event: STS Africa: Information Technology

Abstract

How has the introduction of mobile affected social networks? The two primary theories of network change focus on boundary solidarity, which predicts contraction, and the strengthening of weak ties, which predicts expansion. We have examined the diffusion of mobile technology at repeated intervals from their introduction until their virtually complete saturation in many sub-Saharan countries. This presentation reviews original data from Kenya and Ghana, with data on south India for comparative purposes.

Authors

• Wesley Shrum, Louisiana State University

• Paige Miller, University of Wisconsin, River Falls