Chapter 8 - Network Theory: The Structure of Complex Networks

Abstract

Networks are the architectural basis of complex systems. Knowledge of the structure and dynamics of these networks is critical. Most network investigation to date in the scientific community has focused on the structure of complex networks. In many scientific pursuits, structural issues seem to get addressed first. We’ll follow that pattern. This chapter focuses on the structure of complex networks. The next chapter focuses on the dynamics of complex networks. Here, in this chapter, the fundamental concepts and properties that characterize network structure are defined and described. A primary underlying goal of this book is to increase our understanding of real-world network-based systems (particularly ecological systems). Next, therefore, the chapter takes a comprehensive look at empirical data from real-world networks, with an emphasis on properties that are common to many of them. The chapter then takes a theoretical perspective, and considers mathematical developments relevant to complex system networks and their structural properties.