METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INFERRING USER ATTRIBUTES IN A SOCIAL NETWORKING SYSTEM

A method and system for inferring user attributes in a social networking system. The method includes maintaining a social graph comprising a plurality of nodes and a plurality of edges between the nodes. An unknown, incomplete, or inaccurate user attribute for a user is identified, and a plurality of probability lists are generated using a corresponding plurality of probability algorithms that utilize known user attributes and the social graph. The probability lists include a set of probability entries, each including a prediction value for the unknown, incomplete, or inaccurate user attribute and a confidence score. Using the probability lists and a plurality of weights corresponding to the probability algorithms, an inferred user attribute value is generated and stored. The weights may be adjusted based upon learning the correct value of the unknown, incomplete, or inaccurate user attribute, and search results may be modified to include the user for search queries seeking information about the inferred user attribute.