Nicholas Christakis is an American physician and sociologist known for his research on social networks and their impact on health. He is a professor at Yale University, where he studies how social connections influence behaviors, emotions, and health outcomes. His work often explores the spread of ideas and behaviors through social networks. In addition to his academic contributions, Christakis has authored several books, including Connected: The Surprising Power of Our Social Networks and How They Shape Our Lives. He has also been involved in public health initiatives, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he provided insights on the importance of social interactions in disease transmission.