Cognitive Scaffold

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MENTAL MODEL · M4880

Metcalfe's Law

Metcalfe's Law
BusinessHigh supportEconomics
Included
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

The value of a network is proportional to the square of the number of users in the network (n²). Each additional user increases the network's value exponentially.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

A mathematical expression of network effects. It explains why social platforms, once they reach a critical mass, tend to create a winner-take-all situation.

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Anchor fast decisions

Network value is proportional to the square of the number of users (V∝n²), because each user is interconnected with others. Scale translates into exponential value.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metcalfe%27s_lawZH · Explicit
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