What Is a Social Network?
A social network is an online platform that enables users to create a public or semi-public profile within a bounded system, articulate a list of other users with whom they share a connection, and view and traverse their list and those made by others within the system. This interaction facilitates building social relationships among individuals who have similar interests, backgrounds, or real-life connections.
Types of Social Networks
General Purpose Social Networks
Example: Facebook, Google+ These platforms cater to a broad audience and offer a variety of features such as messaging, sharing multimedia, and creating events.
Professional Networks
Example: LinkedIn These networks are designed for career-oriented individuals to connect, share resumes, and endorse skills.
Interest-Based Networks
Example: Goodreads, Last.fm These networks connect people based on shared interests like book reading or music preferences.
Niche Social Networks
Example: ResearchGate, DeviantArt These platforms serve specific communities like scientists or artists.
Historical Context
Evolution of Social Networks
Social networks have ancient roots in the pre-digital era, embodied by community gatherings, postal mail systems, and telegraphs. However, the advent of computer technology and the internet in the late 20th century transformed the concept.
Milestones:
- 1997: SixDegrees.com was one of the first recognizable social networking sites, blending profiles, friends lists, and messaging.
- 2003: MySpace gained popularity for its customizable profiles and music sharing.
- 2004: Facebook launched, focusing initially on academic networking before expanding globally.
Special Considerations
Privacy and Security
The vast amount of personal data shared on social networks has raised significant concerns over privacy, data security, and user consent.
Influence on Society
Social networks have profound impacts on societal interactions, altering communication patterns, influencing public opinion, and even affecting mental health.
Examples of Popular Social Networks
A ubiquitous platform allowing users to connect, share content, create pages, and join groups.
A microblogging network where users post and interact through short messages called “tweets.”
A photo and video-sharing network known for its influence on digital marketing and branding.
Applicability of Social Networks
Personal Uses
Connecting with friends and family, sharing personal accomplishments, and engaging in leisure activities.
Professional Uses
Networking, job searching, professional development, and recruitment processes.
Business Uses
Marketing, brand building, customer engagement, and market research.
Comparisons with Related Terms
Social Media
While social networks refer specifically to the network of relationships between users, social media encompasses a broader category that includes content-sharing platforms, video streaming services, and blogs.
FAQs
Q: How do social networks generate revenue? A: Primarily through advertising, sponsored content, subscription models, and data brokerage.
Q: What impact do social networks have on mental health? A: Both positive (e.g., social support, information access) and negative effects (e.g., addiction, cyberbullying, anxiety).
Q: Can social networks be used for educational purposes? A: Yes, through collaborative tools, forums, and educational content sharing.
References
- Boyd, D.M., & Ellison, N.B. (2007). Social Network Sites: Definition, History, and Scholarship. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication.
- Kaplan, A.M., & Haenlein, M. (2010). Users of the world, unite! The challenges and opportunities of Social Media. Business Horizons.
Summary
Social networks are a transformative element of contemporary society, revolutionizing how individuals interact, share information, and develop new relationships. By understanding their history, types, applications, and related issues, one can better navigate and leverage these powerful tools for personal, professional, and business purposes.
