Templates of eventful action in social networks

We introduce the term relational template to indicate culturally extant and available models of typification of roles and (inter)actions in networks. These models are eventfully deployed by situated actors. Building on extant theorizing and research studies, we emphasize two features of relational templates: transposition of models for relationships from one familiar domain to another; and actors' construction of templates from locally accessible materials ready for use. We argue that these templates are eventful in multiple ways, providing the grounds for invocations of networks, norms, practices, discourses, and modalities of interaction. Events also occur when there are disruptions, ruptures, or dissolutions in the networked structures of society and politics. In this chapter we illuminate the essential connection between networks and events as they are situationally co-constitutive. In doing so, we cast light upon both existing and potential new paths for eventful synchronous analysis of networks and culture.