52 research outputs found
Grounding force-directed network layouts with latent space models
Force-directed layout algorithms are ubiquitously used tools for network visualization. However, existing algorithms either lack clear interpretation, or they are based on techniques of dimensionality reduction which simply seek to preserve network-immanent topological features, such as geodesic distance. We propose an alternative layout algorithm. The forces of the algorithm are derived from latent space models, which assume that the probability of nodes forming a tie depends on their distance in an unobserved latent space. As opposed to previous approaches, this grounds the algorithm in a plausible interaction mechanism. The forces infer positions which maximise the likelihood of the given network under the latent space model. We implement these forces for unweighted, multi-tie, and weighted networks. We then showcase the algorithm by applying it to Facebook friendship, and Twitter follower and retweet networks; we also explore the possibility of visualizing data traditionally not seen as network data, such as survey data. Comparison to existing layout algorithms reveals that node groups are placed in similar configurations, while said algorithms show a stronger intra-cluster separation of nodes, as well as a tendency to separate clusters more strongly in multi-tie networks, such as Twitter retweet networks
Ideological differences in engagement in public debate on Twitter
This article analyses public debate on Twitter via network representations of
retweets and replies. We argue that tweets observable on Twitter have both a
direct and mediated effect on the perception of public opinion. Through the
interplay of the two networks, it is possible to identify potentially
misleading representations of public opinion on the platform. The method is
employed to observe public debate about two events: The Saxon state elections
and violent riots in the city of Leipzig in 2019. We show that in both cases,
(i) different opinion groups exhibit different propensities to get involved in
debate, and therefore have unequal impact on public opinion. Users retweeting
far-right parties and politicians are significantly more active, hence their
positions are disproportionately visible. (ii) Said users act significantly
more confrontational in the sense that they reply mostly to users from
different groups, while the contrary is not the case.Comment: 5 figures, 4 table
The twitter explorer: a framework for observing Twitter through interactive networks
We present an open-source interface for scientists to explore Twitter data
through interactive network visualizations. Combining data collection,
transformation and visualization in one easily accessible framework, the
twitter explorer connects distant and close reading of Twitter data through the
interactive exploration of interaction networks and semantic networks. By
lowering the technological barriers of data-driven research, it aims to attract
researchers from various disciplinary backgrounds and facilitates new
perspectives in the thriving field of computational social science.Comment: 5 pages, 3 figure
Zero-divisor graph with respect to an ideal
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