The revised and updated edition of this bestselling text provides an accessible introduction to the theory and practice of network analysis in the social sciences. It gives a clear and authoritative guide to the general framework of network analysis, explaining the basic concepts, technical measures and reviewing the available computer programs. The book outlines both the theoretical basis of network analysis and the key techniques for using it as a research tool. Building upon definitions of points, lines and paths, John Scott demonstrates their use in clarifying such measures as density, fragmentation and centralization. He identifies the various cliques, components and circles into which networks are formed, and outlines an approach to the study of socially structured positions. He also discusses the use of multidimensional methods for investigating social networks. Social Network Analysis is an invaluable resource for researchers across the social sciences and for students of social theory and research methods.

约翰·斯科特，英国埃塞克斯大学社会学教授。出版30余部书，论文近130篇。主要出版物有《企业、阶级和资本主义》，《谁支配英国》，《社会学理论》、《分层和权力》，《社会网络分析》，主编《牛津社会学词典》。他是《社会学评论》杂志的编委，《英国社会学杂志》和《欧洲社会理论杂志》的编委会成员。最近的著述有《社会理论：社会学中的核心问题》，主编《当代50位重要社会学家》。