Theoretical Advances for Political Network Analysis

• In Event: Networks: US Politics and Theoretical Advances

Abstract

Political scientists have been at the forefront of methodological advances in social network analysis, particularly with respect to applying modern statistical methods to network data, integrating experiments with network designs, and analyzing big data. However, methodological improvements have outstripped progress in theories of networks. This paper proposes areas for theoretical extensions that are concomitant with recent methodological developments. Key areas of advance include: (1) the strength or intensity of network ties; (2) the types of network ties producing multiplexity; (3) the types of networks creating multimodality; and (4) temporality that generates dynamic networks.

This paper demonstrates how theoretical perspectives in these four areas can be applied to political networks and are related to one another. The strength of networks is modelled using threshold theories. Multiplexity and multimodality are integrated with institutional theories. Temporality is examined using path dependence. Together these perspectives yield testable hypotheses for research on civil wars, international conflicts, treaty compliance, elections, political parties, social movements, and other areas.

Author

• Michael T. Heaney, University of Glasgow