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Two not of a kind: Social network theory and informal social networks in East Asia

Author

Listed:
  • Sven Horak

    (St. John’s University)

  • Markus Taube

    (University of Duisburg-Essen
    Nankai University)

  • Inju Yang

    (EDC Paris Business School)

  • Katja Restel

    (University of Duisburg-Essen)

Abstract

In this study, we analyze the core assumptions and ideals of social network characteristics in East Asia and the West. By using an analytical frame derived from the literature and consisting of key antecedents of social networks, we find differences between the conventional assumptions of social network characteristics when comparing them with those found in East Asia. Moreover, we find remarkable intra-regional differences. Among these, and contrary to common beliefs about social networks, we find weak ties are neither hardly effective nor preferably used in East Asia, where strong ties are both more preferred and more powerful. Further, social ties tend to be rather consummatory and networks rather closed. Also, depending on the nature of the network, bridging either does not work or is not intended. We recommend further studies explicitly taking local context into account in order to refine or reframe extant knowledge on social networks.

Suggested Citation

  • Sven Horak & Markus Taube & Inju Yang & Katja Restel, 2019. "Two not of a kind: Social network theory and informal social networks in East Asia," Asia Pacific Journal of Management, Springer, vol. 36(2), pages 349-372, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:asiapa:v:36:y:2019:i:2:d:10.1007_s10490-018-9602-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s10490-018-9602-z
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    Cited by:

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    4. Liang, Jianchao & Liu, Jian & Tse, Chi K. & Liu, Mengxuan, 2024. "Observer-based aperiodically intermittent pinning synchronization of complex-valued dynamical networks with time-varying delay," Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, Elsevier, vol. 635(C).
    5. Tiezhong Liu & Huyuan Zhang & Hubo Zhang, 2020. "The Impact of Social Media on Risk Communication of Disasters—A Comparative Study Based on Sina Weibo Blogs Related to Tianjin Explosion and Typhoon Pigeon," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-17, January.
    6. Sven Horak & Yuliani Suseno, 2023. "Informal Networks, Informal Institutions, and Social Exclusion in the Workplace: Insights from Subsidiaries of Multinational Corporations in Korea," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 186(3), pages 633-655, September.
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