How do ethnic groups maintain their identity within diverse societies? This paper reviews research on ethnicity in plural societies, focusing on social networks, social capital, and ethnic identity, particularly how interpersonal connections influence boundary maintenance and identity retention. The review gives particular attention to studies that consider how interpersonal networks within ethnic communities influence the degree of closure in social boundaries and the degree to which ethnic identity is retained. Most of the studies discussed were published in the last two decades, framing the work in an appropriate context. Two main research foci characterize contemporary studies: economic actions undertaken by the immigrant generation and the socialization experiences of their offspring. This research is also reviewed how participation in ethnic churches, metropolitan and regional concentrations of ethnic populations, and transnationalism influence ethnic groups' experiences. The conclusion suggested a few directions for future research.
This review published in the Annual Review of Sociology is highly relevant to the journal's broad scope within the social sciences. By providing a comprehensive overview of studies on ethnicity, social networks, and identity, this paper synthesizes current knowledge and offers insights into key sociological processes within diverse societies. Its focus on empirical research aligns with the journal's mission.