Universal vulnerability in strong modular networks with various degree distributions from inequality to equality

Generally, networks are classified into two sides of inequality and equality with respect to the number of links at nodes by the types of degree distributions. One side includes many social, technological, and biological networks which consist of a few nodes with many links, and many nodes with a few links, whereas the other side consists of all nodes with an equal number of links. In comprehensive investigations between them, we have found that, as a more equal network, the tolerance of whole connectivity is stronger without fragmentation against the malfunction of nodes in a wide class of randomized networks. However, we newly find that all networks which include typical well-known network structure between them become extremely vulnerable, if a strong modular (or community) structure is added with commonalities of areas, interests, religions, purpose, and so on. These results will encourage avoiding too dense unions by connecting nodes and taking into account the balanced resource allocation between intra- and inter-links of weak communities. We must reconsider not only efficiency but also tolerance against attacks or disasters, unless no community that is really impossible.

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Publication Details

Journal
Scientific Reports
Published
2025-09-26
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-17794-5
Citations
2
Primary Topic
Complex Network Analysis Techniques
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
2.65
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article

Universal vulnerability in strong modular networks with various degree distributions from inequality to equality

Yukio Hayashi, Taishi Ogawa
2 citations
Scientific Reports
Complex Network Analysis Techniques
2.65
article

Universal vulnerability in strong modular networks with various degree distributions from inequality to equality

Yukio Hayashi, Taishi Ogawa
article en
2 citations

Abstract

Generally, networks are classified into two sides of inequality and equality with respect to the number of links at nodes by the types of degree distributions. One side includes many social, technological, and biological networks which consist of a few nodes with many links, and many nodes with a few links, whereas the other side consists of all nodes with an equal number of links. In comprehensive investigations between them, we have found that, as a more equal network, the tolerance of whole connectivity is stronger without fragmentation against the malfunction of nodes in a wide class of randomized networks. However, we newly find that all networks which include typical well-known network structure between them become extremely vulnerable, if a strong modular (or community) structure is added with commonalities of areas, interests, religions, purpose, and so on. These results will encourage avoiding too dense unions by connecting nodes and taking into account the balanced resource allocation between intra- and inter-links of weak communities. We must reconsider not only efficiency but also tolerance against attacks or disasters, unless no community that is really impossible.

Scientific ReportsVol. 15(1)
Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JP)
Openalex Percentile: Top 9%
Complex Network Analysis Techniques
2.65
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