Networks: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions) by Guido Caldarelli
a stimulating introduction, with diverse insights from the inane to the profound
A quick scan of this VSI indicated that it contained a single equation (p=1/2 for a coin toss), reasonable considering the limited depths of explanation possible in this format, but nevertheless indicative of the depth that this introduction to networks attempts. In fairness, it makes good use of graphs. At the time of this review, Wikipedia indicated that 'network' may refer to any of 13 non-proper noun subtopics, any of which may fall within the ambit of this VSI so, again, it can only offer a reader a sense of the extreme breadth and complexity of the networks topic.
My interest was piqued early by the social network representation of a central Australian aboriginal group. No reference or researcher names were given and my own web search suggests that the tribe name must have been spelled Aranda, Arrernte or Arunta but certainly not Arunda as in the book. While this eroded my confidence in the accuracy of this VSI edition, most other areas of discussion identified researchers and the limited bibliography, again excusable up to a point in a VSI book, was of less concern.
The VSI is structured around the topography, trends, dynamics, classification, uses and numerous other features of networks. In each case myriad examples are offered from ecology, neurology, various associations of words and people, the internet, the `six degrees of separation' theory, and many more. There is more emphasis on social networks and the examples and observations range from the inane to the common sense to the profound. The exposition is fresh and engaging. One interesting topic on network structure dealt with how scientific profile and success is a product of network structure (I was interested in how this worked for scientific paper citation) and this topic provided an excellent foundation for further reading and thinking through the issue, as I believe it does for many other networks topics.
In keeping with the book's focus on the features of networks, it provides a useful review in its final chapter, "All the World's a Net; or Not?". Accompanied with the fine range of examples, this is a useful and engaging introduction to the diverse subject of networks.