James Fowler talked about the book he wrote with Nicholas Christakis, Connected: The Surprising Power of Our Social Networks and How They Shape Our Lives (Little, Brown and Company; September 28, 2009). In the book the social scientists argue that almost every choice people make has something to do with the social networks they belong to. James Fowler talked about how they came to write the book. Using studies and statistics, Professor Fowler talked about how all behaviors are contagious, including overeating, suicide and choice of romantic partner. He used slides during his presentation. He also responded to questions from members of the audience. The event was at Warwick's Bookstore, in La Jolla at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 8, 2009.

James Fowler is an associate professor at the University of California, San Diego. He teaches in the Department of Political Science and the Center for Wireless and Population Health Systems.