The Snowball Effect

This podcast episode delves into the dynamics of spreading processes, from viruses to information and ideas, in social networks, highlighting the concepts of strong and weak ties, complex and simple contagions, and their distinct roles in shaping social change. It explores case studies like the civil rights movement, the Black Lives Matter movement, and the growth of Twitter to unpack the role of social proof, weak ties, committed minorities, and tipping points in driving change. The episode emphasizes the influence of social networks on spreading information, whether through simple or complex contagions, and acknowledges the potential impact of structured interactions in addressing social problems.