The analytical potential of social-metric and self-centered Networks: an application to the study of Cohesion-Integration of the social Collectives

Abstract

This article links different theoretical-conceptual %elds, methodological perspectives and methods usually juxtaposed in sociological work. From a theoretical point of view it focuses on the idea of cohesion and integration as expressions of the distribution of resources of Social Capital. In a perspective between conceptual and methodological issues it refers to the theory and analysis of social networks and also to intermediate concepts between networks, cohesion, integration and social capital such as Bonding and Bridging. The empirical references of its application are six human collectives, which are the expression of different modes of belonging and integration into society. In terms of analysis and interpretation, on the one hand, a combination of classical socialdemographical variables is used, and, on the other hand, relational variables are used. These latter variables are expressed under two modes, socio-metric and ego-centred. In this sense the article also shows the effectiveness and relevance of the socio-metric and ego-centred networks and its indicators.