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Puig, Sergio --- "Network analysis and the sociology of international law" [2018] ELECD 1002; in Hirsch, Moshe; Lang, Andrew (eds), "Research Handbook on the Sociology of International Law" (Edward Elgar Publishing, 2018) 319

Book Title: Research Handbook on the Sociology of International Law

Editor(s): Hirsch, Moshe; Lang, Andrew

Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing

ISBN: 9781783474486

Section: Chapter 15

Section Title: Network analysis and the sociology of international law

Author(s): Puig, Sergio

Number of pages: 14

Abstract/Description:

Methodologies derived from network analysis are beginning to be applied to the study of law and legal institutions, including international law. This chapter briefly explains the origins, basic premises, and operation of social network analysis, as well as its possible application to specific international legal fields. The chapter briefly revisits its application to international arbitration, a legal field where a core group of professionals influence the making, interpretation, and enforcement of the law. The chapter also discusses the main limitations of this methodological approach to understanding the sociology of international law as well as its possible future application. While optimistic about the growing use of this research strategy, the chapter argues that we should also be cautious of the normative and explanatory conclusions derived from the application of network analysis.