The Magic of Duality: Mapping Individuals and Groups Using Harry Potter Networks

Abstract

This activity uses two-mode network data to explore duality—a key concept in culture, networks, and sociological theory. Students analyze symbolic connections between Harry Potter characters based on shared group affiliations, revealing deeper social structures and relationships within the series. It’s an engaging way to apply network analysis in...

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Details

Subject Area(s):

Cultural Sociology, Quantitative Methodology, Small Groups, Social Networks, Social Organization, Teaching and Learning in Sociology, Theory

Resource Type(s):

Class Activity, Image

Class Level(s):

Advanced Graduate, College 400, Graduate

Class Size(s):

Any

Usage Notes

This activity is designed for use in R and is provided as a knitted markdown file. To ensure full functionality and ease of interaction, it is recommended that students copy the embedded code into an R script (.R file) before running it. Because the activity assumes a working knowledge of R and involves manipulating two-mode network data, it is best...

Learning Goals and Assessments

Learning Goal(s):

1. Visualise two mode networks.
2. Interpret two-mode network data to identify dual relationships between individuals and groups.
3. Define the sociological meaning of duality, particularly in the context of social networks.
4. Apply the concept of duality to understand complex social structures by describing the interdependence of individuals and groups.

Goal Assessment(s):

1. This is a demonstration of how to measure the duality of individuals and groups using RStudio. Students will follow along during class. There is a suggested assignment where students are asked to construct and analyse their own two mode network data. All datasets required for the class session are included in the packages used in the document. Students...