Influence in terrorist networks: From undirected to directed graphs

Steven J. Brams; Hande Mutlu; Shawn Ling Ramirez

doi:10.1080/10576100600701982

Influence in terrorist networks: From undirected to directed graphs

Steven J. Brams, Hande Mutlu, Shawn Ling Ramirez

Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review

Abstract

A methodology for converting terrorist networks from undirected graphs to simplified directed graphs (or digraphs), and mapping the flow of influence in them, is described. It is based on an "influence assumption" - that important persons with more links influence less important persons with fewer links. This methodology, which was previously used to analyze the structure of influence relationships in Communist-bloc countries and the international system, is illustrated by its application to two terrorist networks constructed after 9/11. In the second more complex network, the hierarchy sheds light on the leadership and likely terrorist cells embedded in the network. Refined data and alternative assumptions about influence could provide additional insights into the structure of terrorist networks.

Original language	English (US)
Pages (from-to)	703-718
Number of pages	16
Journal	Studies in Conflict and Terrorism
Volume	29
Issue number	7
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1080/10576100600701982
State	Published - Oct 2006

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
Sociology and Political Science
Safety Research
Political Science and International Relations

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10.1080/10576100600701982

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title = "Influence in terrorist networks: From undirected to directed graphs",

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AB - A methodology for converting terrorist networks from undirected graphs to simplified directed graphs (or digraphs), and mapping the flow of influence in them, is described. It is based on an "influence assumption" - that important persons with more links influence less important persons with fewer links. This methodology, which was previously used to analyze the structure of influence relationships in Communist-bloc countries and the international system, is illustrated by its application to two terrorist networks constructed after 9/11. In the second more complex network, the hierarchy sheds light on the leadership and likely terrorist cells embedded in the network. Refined data and alternative assumptions about influence could provide additional insights into the structure of terrorist networks.

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Influence in terrorist networks: From undirected to directed graphs

Abstract

ASJC Scopus subject areas

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