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The Relative Probability of Facebook Friendship in the United States

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  • Shruthy Nair
  • Clio Andris

Abstract

We mapped Facebook’s Social Connectedness Index (SCI) between adjacent counties in the Contiguous 48 U.S. States. The index is calculated as the number of Facebook friends between counties, divided by the product of active Facebook users in the two counties. The results follow regional science principles that tell us that fewer flows may occur across political (administrative) borders such as state boundaries, and between economic zones, including transition zones between metropolitan areas and hinterland boundaries. We also found low connectivity between adjacent counties that are divided by interstate highways and low connectivity within densely populated areas. High connectivity is found in rural areas, and areas of cultural significance, such as highly African American regions in the U.S. South and isolated regions in Appalachia.

Suggested Citation

  • Shruthy Nair & Clio Andris, 2025. "The Relative Probability of Facebook Friendship in the United States," Environment and Planning B, , vol. 52(1), pages 275-278, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envirb:v:52:y:2025:i:1:p:275-278
    DOI: 10.1177/23998083241272094
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Michael Bailey & Rachel Cao & Theresa Kuchler & Johannes Stroebel & Arlene Wong, 2018. "Social Connectedness: Measurement, Determinants, and Effects," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 32(3), pages 259-280, Summer.
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