connections and relationships between individuals, groups, and organizations involved in politics
political parties, interest groups, lobbying organizations, and individual politicians and bureaucrats
they are often informal and not easily visible even ties are informal, relying on personal connections and trust, rather than formal institutions or rules
Political networks and interpersonal influence are closely related, as political networks are often formed and maintained through interpersonal relationships. Interpersonal influence
How Interpersonal influence can affect political networks:
Building coalitions: can use their connections and relationships to bring together diverse groups with a common goal. This can be used to build a broad-based coalition of support for a particular policy or candidate. Shaping public opinion: can use their connections and relationships to shape public opinion on a particular issue. Influencing policy decisions Building trust: Interpersonal influence is often most effective when it is based on trust Manipulation: can also be used to manipulate others, to deceive or coerce them to gain advantage.
Diffusion
Diffusion in political networks refers to the spread of political ideas, policies, and practices among individuals and groups within a political system
The Diffusion process typically involves a series of steps Awareness, Interest, Evaluation, Trial, and Adoption. AIETA
Awareness Interest Evaluation Trials Adoption