Research
Several studies, such as Milgram's small world experiment, have been conducted to empirically measure this connectedness. The phrase "six degrees of separation" is often used as a synonym for the idea of the "small world" phenomenon.
However, detractors argue that Milgram's experiment did not demonstrate such a link, and the "six degrees" claim has been decried as an "academic urban myth". Also, the existence of isolated groups of humans, for example the Korubo and other native Brazilian populations, would tend to invalidate the strictest interpretation of the hypothesis.
Read more about this topic: Six Degrees Of Separation
Famous quotes containing the word research:
“It is a good morning exercise for a research scientist to discard a pet hypothesis every day before breakfast. It keeps him young.”
—Konrad Lorenz (19031989)
“The working woman may be quick to see any problems with children as her fault because she isnt as available to them. However, the fact that she is employed is rarely central to the conflict. And overall, studies show, being employed doesnt have negative effects on children; carefully done research consistently makes this clear.”
—Grace Baruch (20th century)
“After all, the ultimate goal of all research is not objectivity, but truth.”
—Helene Deutsch (18841982)