Abstract

The social sciences have long been interested in the relationship between the individual and its social environment. In order to pursue this interest, researchers usually follow one of two routes: either study this relationship in the form of groups or as social networks. This work resulted in various theories that differ from each other in their goals, approaches, methods, and levels of analysis. Taking into account the different theories highlights the variety and necessity of the diverse approaches and can illuminate how they complement each other in understanding human nature.