Utilization of network analysis in international communication studies

This paper elaborates the potential of systematic network approaches for the development of understanding of the role of communications in international relations. For the scholars of international communication, it is time for a self conscious return to networks analysis. There are multiple reasons to do this. The first reason to do this is the same reason that earlier generations of researchers did it: in an effort to link process of communication to the social world. The second reason is that we talk about networks anyway and a more systematic use of the concept would allow us to draw both on the methodological and theoretical strategies that have been developed over the past forty years. Thirdly, a recurrent call from social theorists has been for a more relational approach which frequently translates into discussions of micro-macro transition and structure and agency. Network analysis gives us an approach to these issues that is transparent and coherent. Fourthly, networks offer a way to deal with the complexity and non-linearity of the contemporary world. Fifthly, networks will allow us to overcome some of the obstacles to integration consideration of communications back in to international relations.