Social Networks and Social Exclusion: Sociological and Policy Perspectives

How important are social networks to daily life? There is now substantial evidence that attachment to a network may be vital in securing employment, in promoting good health, in maintaining positive relationships, and in supporting people in transitions through the life course. Equally, lack of access to networks may lead to problems of various kinds, such as poverty, lack of support in old age, and social isolation. Providing an overview of the social network literature with a particular focus on the USA and Britain, this illuminating volume reviews the range of social issues and concerns associated with the social network perspective. Examples of quantitative and qualitative studies are given using a broad network approach, and the volume concludes with a discussion of the implications for social and public policy of a network perspective.

About the Author

Chris Phillipson is Professor of Applied Social Studies and Social Gerontology at the School of Social Relations, Keele University; Graham Allan is Professor of Sociology also at the School of Social Relations, Keele University; Professor David Morgan is Professor of Sociology within the Department of Sociology, University of Manchester.