Foursquare & social networks

Passing thought: Foursquare point system seems to incentivize loyatly (Mayorships & repeat visit points) and exploration (extra for visiting new places). There seems to be a parallel one could draw with creating an effective social network. One derives different kinds of social capital benefits through strengthening existing ties (loyalty) versus branching out and exploring new connections. Through the latter, one can reap the "strength of weak ties" which are more apt to connect you with jobs and other opportunities you wouldn't otherwise know about. But it's those stronger ties, typically your close friends and family, that you are likely to rely on in times of need. Not to mention those deeper ties are typically source of richer meaning and happiness. Both kinds of ties are good, ideally one has a balance of the two.