network motifs

Network motifs are small, recurring patterns of connections within larger networks, such as neural, social, or biological systems. They are like building blocks or common design templates that appear more frequently than expected by chance, revealing fundamental organizational principles. These motifs help us understand how complex systems maintain stability, process information, or adapt by highlighting typical interaction patterns. Identifying motifs can uncover the core functional units of a network, providing insights into how the system operates and evolves.