Final answer:
The tendency for people to like others who are similar to themselves is known as homophily, which influences the formation of our social networks by encouraging connections with like-minded individuals but may also limit exposure to diverse perspectives.
Step-by-step explanation:
People tend to form relationships with individuals who are similar to themselves due to a phenomenon known as homophily. This term describes the tendency for people to have social networks that include friendships, marriage, business partnerships, and other types of relationships with those who share likenesses in areas such as background, attitudes, and lifestyle. It makes getting along and forming connections easier because shared interests and preferences can smooth the way for mutual activities and bonds.
However, homophily can also limit exposure to diversity, leading to homogenous groups and reduced interaction with individuals of different races, ethnicities, socio-economic statuses, and life experiences. By surrounding ourselves predominantly with people who are like us, we might not encounter a broad range of perspectives. Recognizing this bias can be important for understanding how our social circles are formed and the implications it has for personal growth and societal diversity.