Line (in relational network theory)

In the notations used by relational network theory, a line connects nodes. 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. 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.

Sources

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