Networks Illustrated: 8 Principles Without Calculus (Principle V: Network Is Expensive)

Are you curious about the social and technological networks that shape our lives, like Amazon, the Internet, and WiFi? But are you worried about a Calculus or Linear Algebra prerequisite that typically comes along with such courses? If so, then this book is for you. You will learn the key principles behind the networks that surround us every day, such as “sharing is hard” and “crowds are wise”, and you will see how these simple principles are reflected in how these networks operate. Plus, All the mathematics you need is adding and multiplying numbers, as this book relies on pictures, anecdotes, and analogies as instructional tools.

This book can also be used for an introductory course in college or high school, offered to those interested in networking from any majors and disciplines. Instructional resources, including lecture videos and slides, as well as comprehensive questions for homework assignments, can found at the continuously updated course website www.networksillustrated.org, or by emailing the authors at networksillustrated@gmail.com.