according to Christakis and Fowler, we cannot transmit ideas and behaviours much beyond our friends' friends' friends {in other words, across just three degrees of separation}. This is because the transmission and reception of an idea or behaviour requires a stronger connection than the relaying of a letter {in the case of Milgram's experiment} or the communication that a certain employment opportunity exists. Merely knowing people is not the same as being able to influence them to study more or over-eat. Imitation is indeed the sincerest form of flattery, even when it is unconscious.
( Niall Ferguson )
[ The Square and the Tower: ]
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