Universal theoretical framework for evolving networks

Establish whether a universal theoretical framework can be defined for evolving networks.

Background

The chapter motivates the need for a unifying theory of network evolution by noting that common growth mechanisms such as preferential attachment reproduce some ubiquitous features (e.g., power-law degree distributions) but fail to capture system-specific properties. This gap suggests that a comprehensive framework integrating both endogenous dynamics and exogenous constraints may be required.

The authors frame this as a foundational uncertainty about the existence and scope of a universal theory capable of explaining structural diversity and dynamics across biological and technological networks.