diffonderne

Diffonderne is a fictional concept used to illustrate diffusion dynamics in network theory. The term is used in this article to describe a particular pattern by which a trait, idea, or behavior spreads through a finite population, emphasizing localized amplification and persistent subnetwork adoption.

Definition and scope: A diffonderne occurs when a phenomenon that has begun to spread reaches a critical cluster within a network, such that the rate of adoption within that cluster exceeds the average network rate, triggering cascading uptake across neighboring clusters.

Mechanism: It involves a triad of factors: contact rate, reinforcement, and threshold distribution. Local density and clustering increase reinforcements; once a cluster crosses its adoption threshold, diffusion accelerates outward along ties.

Origins and usage: The concept arose in theoretical discussions of diffusion in complex networks and is named to evoke diffusion and the fictional suffix -onderne. It is used in academic simulations and thought experiments about how ideas persist in subcommunities.

Relation to other concepts: Related to threshold models, percolation theory, and contagion models; diffonderne differs by emphasizing subnetwork persistence and local reinforcement.

See also: Related topics include diffusion of innovations, network diffusion, and contagion.