Social Networks

One simple definition of a Network by Wikipedia is “Any interconnected group or system”

Another definition of a Network by The Free Dictionary is “An extended group of people with similar interests or concerns who interact and remain in informal contact for mutual assistance or support”

The word Social is defined by Ask.com “as living together or enjoying life in communities or organized groups”

From these definitions, we can deduce that Social Network is a network of individuals for the interacting and enjoying life.

Social networks enable individuals with common interests (i.e. hobbies, activities, skills) or characteristic (i.e. race, nationality, religion etc) share their views and opinion and interact with other individuals like them.

Social networks have existed long before the well known virtual platforms we have today, such as Facebook, myspace, and Cyworld.

There is a social networking system which exists in the Ibo tribe of eastern Nigeria. It is called the age grade. What happens is that children join age grade for children within their age groups, where they socialize with each other. They support one another through every challenge they go through in life. For instance your age grade will be there f you are bereaved or getting married. The village recognizes the importance of this and always incorporates them in every occasion. You find that these groups create a feeling of belonging for the individual. This social network is a very strong one and is maintained through out the lives of the members.