The Social World of the Network. Combining Qualitative and Quantitative Elements in Social Network Analysis

: This paper reflects upon the value of mixing methods, and in particular of integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches, in social network analysis. It argues that each has different strengths and weaknesses but that these are broadly complimentary, thus supporting the argument for their combined use. It also seeks to rebuff any claim that they may presuppose different and incompatible epistemological standpoints. The author supports and explores his claims by way of examples from his own empirical work.