Who networks? The social psychology of virtual communities
Loading...
Authors
Kinniburgh, James B.
Subjects
Computers
Networks
Virtual communities
Sociology
Cybersociology
Netwar
Information operations
Information warfare
Psychology
Society
Intelligence
Special operations
Networks
Virtual communities
Sociology
Cybersociology
Netwar
Information operations
Information warfare
Psychology
Society
Intelligence
Special operations
Advisors
Denning, Dorothy
Arquilla, John
Date of Issue
2004-06
Date
June 2004
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
SOF members must be fully capable (fluent and adept) at operating in, through and upon networks to maximize the leverage of information technologies. Military information operators must possess the components of network capital (access to technology, computer literacy, and social networking ability), a strong tendency to engage in trusting behavior, high cognitive ability and a formal education. Virtual communities offer a mosaic of social behaviors and practices that provide models for virtual organization(s) within the military. Computermediated communications technologies (CMCTs) provide an inherently neutral but polymorphic forum for human social interaction (cyberspace). Specific emergent social topology (real or virtual) depends on the local social needs of individuals and/or bounded groups (communities). Because differences in topology are emergent, topological models have little predictive value. Virtual communities are better understood and predicted through analysis of their metadata. Virtual communities can be characterized as open or clandestine, according to their purpose, accessibility, level of trust, and primary mode of connectedness (bonding or bridging ties). Both open and clandestine communities offer methods of ensuring high levels of efficiency, trust, and security within military computer-mediated communications networks, as well as providing models of organizational flexibility that can be adapted to SOF missions and roles.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
xv, 131 p. : ill. (some col.)
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.