The Holes in Structural Holes Theory (A Literature Review)

Abstract

Criticisms against structural holes theory have led to serious debates about the existence of the roles of tertius gaudens in managing various types of information. This research aims at mapping the fundamental debates of structural holes theory. Accordingly, the author has reviewed sixty (60) previous studies discussing structural holes theory. This study unveils three (3) holes in structural holes theory which are able to explain the metamorphosis of the roles of tertius gaudens. Firstly, concerning the weak and strong ties as the social capital. Secondly, tertius iungens as the hole of tertius gaudens. And thirdly, the role-changing strategy of tertius gaudens and tertius iungens (nexus). In addition, this study also reveals a potential for simultaneous roles of the two tertius which has never been discussed on previous studies. Therefore, further studies need to examine those multiplexity roles by conducting quantitative or qualitative network-analysis studies. Keywords—structural holes; tertius gaudens; tertius iungens