A Model of Robust Positions in Social Networks
American Journal of Sociology, Forthcoming
70 Pages Posted: 22 Jul 2010 Last revised: 14 Jul 2011
Date Written: July 21, 2010
Abstract
What makes an actor’s position in social structure robust rather than fragile? This article introduces a network model that pictures occupants of robust positions as recipients of diversified support from durably located others, and portrays occupants of fragile positions as dependents on tenuously situated others. The model builds from Herfindahl’s measure of concentration and Bonacich’s (1987) measure of status. Using Newcomb’s panel study of status-conferring flows among members of a college fraternity, we find empirical support for the contention that fragility reduces future growth in status. Extensions of the model both to input-output networks among industries in the U.S. economy and to hiring networks among academic departments are presented. Implications for future research are discussed.
Keywords: Networks, Status, Robust
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