Triadic Closure – Nature’s Tendency
https://phys.org/news/2015-05-friends-friendseven-hyena.html
Animals can be pretty social, almost as social as us humans. Research suggests that being social has evolved into a needed trait for survival. Hyenas are one of many animals with a dynamic social network. Within their network they follow the same tendencies observed within humans. Hyenas too become friends with a friend’s friend, forming a triadic relationship. Researchers at the National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis find that Hyenas display the triadic closure property that is essential to their social structure. The study found that forming these relationships in triads was key.
Hyenas, who live in large groups called clans, are highly intelligent. They possess the cognitive ability to recognize certain relationships and who is kin or not. When it comes to bonding, the hyenas are very selective, and prefer those that are friends of a friend. The triad that is formed provides the individual with a competitive advantage. The hyena seems to be aware of the advantage of the network. These animals appear to want to actively seek comfort and cohesiveness. This is suggested by their habits of living within clans. I predict that they couldn’t rely on simply pairings. It doesn’t form a strong enough foundation for this community-oriented animal. Therefore, hyenas look to build an inner community. This community is one that is enforced with trust. Trust is created through forming bonds via the triadic closure property. An animal that befriends the friend of their own friend is confident that they can trust that person, because of the relationship already existing with their friend. Trust is especially needed within the competitive environment of hunting for food. Hunting with a triad can be extremely advantageous to a hyena. I look forward to where this study progresses.