Line (in relational network theory)

In the notations used by relational network theory, a line connects nodes. Lines often have labels next to them in order to make network diagrams easier to read; the labels are not part of the structure.

Connections differ in strength. A line of a given strength may carry varying degrees of activation. It is not the case that you just have a line connecting two points to indicate an interrelationship or else you don't. You can have lines of varying degrees of strength, from a slight, tenuous connection to a strong one. Like a pathway going through a field or a jungle, the more it gets used, the easier it is to use the next time.

In Compact vs. Narrow Notation

• All lines in expanded or narrow notation are one-way lines.
• Lines of compact notation are bidirectional; they are like lines on a highway map for divided highways -- really a pair of oppositely directed lines but drawn as one, just to keep the map from being too cluttered.

Sources

• Lamb, Sydney M.. 2004. Language and Reality: Selected Writings of Sydney Lamb. London: Continuum.
• LangBrain