Social networks are everywhere. Information, influence and infection flow through networks. Social networks affect friendships, romantic liaisons, marriages, work, health and so on. Networks connect us together as individuals, increasingly through the Internet, World Wide Web (WWW), mobile phones, etc. Networks may be benign (e.g., students getting together to party), or they may not be (e.g., terrorist networks). Networks can have far reaching consequences (for better or worse). The focus here is on a broad range of network structures and processes, and how these assist (or impede) personal survival in modern society. This is a non-mathematical introduction to social networks.

two 750 word assignments (15% each),  tutorial presentation paper 1,000 words (20%); synthesis essay 1,500 words (40%); tutorial participation (10%)

20 hours of lectures and 12 hours of tutorials. Lectures taped.

Any two first-year courses from the Faculties of Arts or Science, or permission of Coordinator.

Explore the http://www.sfu.ca/~insna and course WebCT site.