We study some recent developments and challenges in the empirics of the effects of social networks. We focus in particular on researchers' ability to make policy recommendations based on a standard linear econometric model. We examine the potential compatibility between this type of econometric...

In this paper, we model network formation and network interactions under a unified framework. The key feature of our model is to allow individuals to respond to incentives that stem from interaction benefits of certain activities when they choose friends (network links), while capturing...

I look at the equilibrium effects of homophily in network formation games having positive externalities. I show that very weak preferences for network effects (such as preference for being part of a clique) may result in very high levels of homophily at equilibrium. I present an empirical...

We present a flexible model of wage dynamics where information about job openings is transmitted through social networks. The model is based on Calvó-Armengol & Jackson (2004, 2007) and extends their results outside the stationary distribution, and under observed and unobserved heterogeneity....

This paper estimates the causal impact of party affiliation (Republican or Democrat) of U.S. governors on pollution. Using a regression discontinuity design, gubernatorial election data, and air quality data from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), we find that pollution is lower under...

We study some recent developments and challenges in the empirics of the effects of social networks. We focus in particular on researchers' ability to make policy recommendations based on a standard linear econometric model. We examine the potential compatibility between this type of econometric...