Networks!

I am enjoying the crazy intersection of theory and life. Our readings in The Laws of the Web and Linked dealt with the concept of social networks. Milgram's experiment and the entertaining Kevin Bacon game demonstrate the truly connective nature of our world.

Last night, I experienced my own funny "network" moment. My husband and I attended a dinner party at the home of a former co-worker of mine. Meghan was an intern in our school for a year and served a year for a colleague's maternity leave -- and then she landed a job in a different district. We've stayed in touch and get together every few months. There were sixteen people at the party. I expected to know only the hosts and my co-worker Todd and his girlfriend Melanie.

However, to my surprise and delight, I discovered connections to other party guests! Mike and Gina and their newborn son were in attendance. I grew up two streets away from Mike and went all through school with him. We even belonged to the same church. Mike's wife Gina grew up with Meghan, the hostess!

Another party guest, Don, teaches with Meghan. He and his wife Beth used to live in our townhouse complex! We recognized them as soon as they walked in to the party and had fun talking about our neighbors and local hot spots.

As we laughed about what a small world it is, I told the guests that I'd have something fun to add to my blog. They agreed that it is always fun when you see a real connection to a concept you're studying.

I figure since Meghan and her husband hosted the party, they are "connectors" in the way Barabasi and Gladwell define them: "people with an extraordinary knack of making friends and acquaintances. . .an extremely important component of our social network. They create trends and fashions, make important deals, spread fads, or help launch a restaurant" (55-56). Meghan is always on the cutting edge of fashion, and since she is a high school teacher, she wields lots of influence. Their home is beautifully decorated in contemporary style: rich, saturated colors and gorgeous art adorn the walls; funnky furniture and accessories make the home trendy and fun. Her husband Mike is a realtor, and he sells commercial and residential properties all over the area. They have connections with people in many different fields and age levels.
Groovy!