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Abstract

Many scientists nowadays choose to create profiles on the Internet and thus present themselves and their work to a worldwide audience. This study examines, how scientists use the existing online profiles when looking for information about their peers. Of particular interest are differences in behavior based on existing interpersonal ties (strong, weak, latent, and absent ties). The study analyzed data from an online survey of 123 European scientists using quantitative association measures and qualitative comparative analysis. The findings show, that the Internet can positively influence the development of social networks within the scientific community. However, the platforms available for presentation online are numerous and the peer audience heterogeneous. While Internet presence can be of advantage for scientists, it should be designed and maintain with deliberation.

Volume

11

Issue

173

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