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Social network theory, broadband and the future of the World Wide Web

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  • Sgroi, Daniel

Abstract

This paper aims to predict some possible futures for the World Wide Web based on several key network parameters: size, complexity, cost and increasing connection speed through the uptake of broadband technology. This is done through the production of a taxonomy specifically evaluating the stability properties of the fully connected star and complete networks, based on the Jackson and Wolinsky [(1996). A strategic model of social and economic networks. Journal of Economic Theory, 71, 44-74] connections model, modified to incorporate complexity concerns. The taxonomy demonstrates that when connection speeds are low neither the star nor complete networks are stable, and when connection speeds are high the star network is usually stable, while the complete network is never stable. For intermediate speed levels much depends upon the other parameters. Under plausible assumptions about the future, the taxonomy suggests that the Web may be increasingly dominated by a single intermediate site, perhaps best described as a search engine.

Suggested Citation

  • Sgroi, Daniel, 2008. "Social network theory, broadband and the future of the World Wide Web," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 32(1), pages 62-84, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:32:y:2008:i:1:p:62-84
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    Cited by:

    1. Dimitrios Tsiotas & Serafeim Polyzos, 2018. "The Complexity in the Study of Spatial Networks: an Epistemological Approach," Networks and Spatial Economics, Springer, vol. 18(1), pages 1-32, March.
    2. Borkotokey, Surajit & Sarangi, Sudipta, 2011. "Allocation rules for fixed and flexible networks: the role of players and their links," MPRA Paper 38340, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    3. Dimitrios Tsiotas & Serafeim Polyzos, 2015. "Introducing a new centrality measure from the transportation network analysis in Greece," Annals of Operations Research, Springer, vol. 227(1), pages 93-117, April.
    4. Giovannetti, Emanuele & Sigloch, Sebastian, 2015. "An Internet periphery study: Network centrality and clustering for mobile access in Bhutan," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 39(7), pages 608-622.
    5. D’Ignazio, Alessio & Giovannetti, Emanuele, 2014. "Continental differences in the clusters of integration: Empirical evidence from the digital commodities global supply chain networks," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 147(PB), pages 486-497.
    6. Dimitrios TSIOTAS & Labros SDROLIAS & Georgios ASPRIDIS & Ioannis PAPADIMOPOULOS, 2020. "Geographical And Socioeconomic Determinants In The Topology Of Spatial Networks: Evidence From The Interregional Road Network In Greece," Theoretical and Empirical Researches in Urban Management, Research Centre in Public Administration and Public Services, Bucharest, Romania, vol. 15(3), pages 5-28, August.

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