New research from Michigan State University challenges a long-standing idea in social science: that casual acquaintances, or “weak ties,” are essential for staying informed. Instead, the study finds that the real key to hearing about new things is having people in your life who can connect you to other social circles, whether they’re close friends or just acquaintances.

The researchers analyzed over 50 real social networks from places like schools and workplaces, as well as 2,500 simulated networks, to see how new ideas spread. Their findings suggest that one of the most influential social science theories, the Strength of Weak Ties, needs an update. That theory, which is now 50 years old, argues that weak ties are important because they introduce you to new information and ideas.

But the new study shows it’s not whether a connection is weak or strong that matters. It’s whether that connection acts as a bridge to different social groups outside your usual circle.

Broad networks

“The old theory assumed that weak ties matter most, but it missed the bigger point: What matters is whether a tie connects you to a broader network,” the researchers explain.

So, instead of focusing on having lots of casual acquaintances to stay in the know, the authors suggest building connections with people who run in different social circles, whether or not you’re close to them. These ties are valuable for discovering things like job opportunities, but they can also help reduce misunderstandings and polarization by exposing you to new ways of thinking.

“Our bridging ties not only bring in new information but also open us up to new perspectives,” the authors conclude.

This research may prompt a rethink of how we view our social connections and their role in spreading ideas and fostering understanding across different groups.