Diffusion networks: dynamic aspects of network theory and practice

Comparative analysis revealed insufficient representation of the theories of network dynamics in comparison with the theories of network statics, with the exception of the “strategic relational theory of network dynamics” by K. Hay and D. Richards, the actor-network theory of B. Latour and the theory of stochastic processes, on the basis of which most models of network dynamics are built. In comparison with the relational and stochastic approaches, the diffusion direction describing the corresponding type of networks is less represented in the publications. The object of this study is diffusion networks, considered as a communicative element of the process of policy diffusion, that is, a channel for policy dissemination from one policy subject to another. The subject of the study is the political practices of cognitive control in diffusion networks. The methodological basis was the concept of the dynamics of diffusion networks, which allows us to describe the effects of “cognitive limitations” that arise in the Internet. In the development of this topic, it is planned to continue the research in the direction of identifying technologies of cognitive control in diffusion networks based on the manipulation of the cognitive abilities of participants in network relations. The empirical part of the study is aimed at testing the theoretical provisions of the concept of the dynamics of diffusion networks on the example of the practices of network control in the form of political cognitive censorship in the course of digital campaigns. To substantiate the conclusions, we use the big data analysis carried out by monitoring the online network space using the resources of the “Medialogia” and “YouScan” systems. The result was the conceptualization of the concept of “cognitive network control” in relation to diffusion networks, the description of the main dynamic indicator - the speed of dissemination of political information in network communities, and the identification of technologies for cognitive strategic influence in digital practices.

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