Social Network Modelling using tools of Statistical Mechanics

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to study a treatment to social network analysis using the principles of statistical mechanics. After revisiting the popular models and random graph frameworks of complex networks, a formalism to statistical mechanism based on the conventional concepts like phase space, interactions and ensembles is devised. Specific machine learning techniques are employed for the purpose of figuring out the relevant phase-space equations. Thereafter, specific applications of the formalism is explored in the context of business partnership optimization and disease transmission. Several analogues with the statistical mechanics treatment of thermodynamics have also been made.