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When someone joins a social network, it is well known that homophily plays an important role in determining who to connect with ("birds of a feather flock together"). What are the most prominent node attributes usually considered by humans when looking for similar others? Make a list of the 10 most important ones and give a justification for each one. Then, rank them in priority to be typically considered by humans, from 1 (most important) to 10 (least important).
Jan 15, 10:56pm

When individuals join a social network and seek to connect with others, homophily—the tendency to associate with similar others—often guides their choices. Here are the ten most prominent node attributes typically considered by humans when looking for similar others, along with justifications for each:

  1. Age: People often connect with others who are in a similar age group because they share similar life experiences, interests, and challenges.

  2. Gender: Gender can influence social connections due to shared experiences, interests, and societal roles.

  3. Location: Proximity plays a significant role in forming connections. People tend to connect with others who live or work in the same area.

  4. Education Level: Similar educational backgrounds can lead to shared intellectual interests, career paths, and social circles.

  5. Occupation/Industry: People in the same profession or industry often connect due to shared work experiences, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration.

  6. Interests/Hobbies: Shared interests and hobbies are strong drivers of social connections, as they provide common ground for interaction and engagement.

  7. Relationship Status: People often connect with others who have a similar relationship status (e.g., single, married, in a relationship) due to shared life stages and experiences.

  8. Language: Speaking the same language facilitates communication and understanding, making it easier to form and maintain connections.

  9. Cultural Background: Shared cultural backgrounds can lead to similar values, traditions, and social norms, which can foster stronger connections.

  10. Political Views: People often connect with others who share similar political beliefs, as these views can significantly influence social interactions and discussions.

Ranking in Priority:

  1. Interests/Hobbies: Shared interests are often the most immediate and visible attributes that drive initial connections.
  2. Location: Proximity is crucial for face-to-face interactions and shared local experiences.
  3. Age: Similar age groups often have comparable life stages and experiences.
  4. Occupation/Industry: Shared professional backgrounds can lead to meaningful connections and collaborations.
  5. Education Level: Similar educational backgrounds can foster intellectual and career-related connections.
  6. Gender: Shared gender experiences can influence social dynamics and connections.
  7. Cultural Background: Shared cultural values and traditions can create a sense of community and belonging.
  8. Relationship Status: Similar relationship statuses can lead to shared life experiences and support.
  9. Language: Speaking the same language facilitates communication and understanding.
  10. Political Views: While important, political views may not be as immediately visible or influential in initial connections compared to other attributes.

This ranking is based on the general tendency of how people prioritize these attributes when forming social connections, though individual preferences may vary.

Jan 15, 10:56pm

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