Books:
* Six Degrees: The Science of a Connected Age (2003): This groundbreaking book explores the concept of "six degrees of separation" and the implications of a highly interconnected world. It delves into network theory and its application to social phenomena.
* Everything Is Obvious: Once You Know the Answer (2011): This book critiques the tendency to explain past events as inevitable and predictable, arguing that many seemingly obvious outcomes are actually the result of chance and unpredictable factors.
* The Internet Is Not the Answer (2019): Watts analyzes the potential benefits and pitfalls of the internet, arguing that while it has revolutionized communication and information access, it has also contributed to social fragmentation and political polarization.
* Tools of the Trade: How to Think Critically about What You Read (2023): Watts provides practical guidance on how to analyze information critically and avoid common biases and fallacies in thinking.
Academic Articles and Research:
In addition to his books, Watts has authored numerous influential academic articles and conducted extensive research on topics such as:
* Network Theory and Social Networks: He has made significant contributions to understanding the structure and dynamics of social networks, including the spread of information, rumors, and ideas.
* The Role of Chance in Social Phenomena: Watts has studied the impact of random events on social outcomes, challenging deterministic explanations of social change.
* The Social Dynamics of Innovation: He has explored how networks and social interactions influence the process of innovation and creativity.
Duncan Watts is a leading voice in the field of network science and social dynamics. His work helps us understand the complexities of the interconnected world we live in and the often surprising ways in which our choices and actions can shape our lives.