Why Community Leaders Need to Understand Networks - With Bill Johnston and Dr Lauren Vargas
May 12, 2021
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Bill Johnston and Dr. Lauren Vargas explore the concept of networks and communities, discussing the definitions of 'network', the impact of the internet and online communication, responsibilities in networks, and understanding change and network dynamics.
Understanding the different types of networks and engagement is crucial for effectively participating in networks and communities.
Networks belong to individuals and require an understanding of context, purpose, and control over connections, while communities involve shared purpose, identity, and deep relationships.
Deep dives
The Importance of Understanding Networks
Understanding networks at an intuitive level is crucial for individuals and organizations. It requires a different skill set that combines various capabilities. By grasping how information flows through communities and recognizing the different types of networks and engagement, we can better navigate and manage our connections. Building literacy and intentionally wielding these skills are essential for effectively participating in networks and communities.
Unpacking the Complexity of Networks
Networks have evolved over time, with a historical struggle between hierarchical structures and network-based organization of power. The current epoch is characterized by the internet, the social graph, and the dominance of algorithms. Networks and communities are intertwined, but there is a need to differentiate them. Networks belong to individuals, requiring an understanding of the context, purpose, and control over connections. Communities, on the other hand, involve shared purpose, identity, and deep relationships. Exploring the nested nature of networks and communities helps in understanding their complexities.
The Challenges and Opportunities in the Current Epoch
In the current epoch, networks and communities are influenced by technology, particularly social media platforms like Facebook. The social graph and algorithm-driven feeds have transformed how we connect and share information. However, issues of data rights and control arise, questioning our ownership and agency within these networks. While there are challenges, there are also opportunities to leverage technology for positive impact and innovation. Developing knowledge and skills in managing networks becomes crucial for individuals and organizations.
The Need for Change and Building Bridges
Change is a critical aspect when considering networks and communities, encompassing various levels and contexts. Understanding the patterns and dynamics of change within networks, as well as the influence of individual and organizational actions, is essential. Recognizing the role of catalysts and building bridges between different nodes and places within networks can foster meaningful change. By challenging norms, creating new paradigms, and fostering awareness and capability, we can build a better understanding of networks for positive transformation.
In the first episode of Season 2 of the Cohere podcast, Bill Johnston and Dr. Lauren Vargas explore the concept of "network" as it relates to online and real-life communities. In the episode they cover: The many definitions of “Network” The technical infrastructure linking people and things The implicit and dynamic connections between people in a group (aka social graph) The activity of actively seeking connections Special places vs special people How a network relates to a community "The difference between a community and a network is that you belong to a community, but a network belongs to you." Zygmund Bauman - as quoted in The Network Epochs Mobility & Transportation Networks Analog Communications (telegraph / phone / TV) The commercial Internet Internet + Social Graph (the dawn of Facebook) Internet + Social Graph + Algorithms (the dominance of Facebook) What’s next? Additional sources referenced in the show: "" - Joshua Cooper Ramo "" - Albert-Laszlo Barabasi "" - Niall Ferguson "", Wired - Neal Stephenson "" - Sinan Aral "" - Exponential View podcast host Azeem Azhar interviews Sinan Aral "" - Nicholas Christakis, James Fowler "" - Damon Centola
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