Inequalities in Network Structures

14 Pages Posted: 9 Sep 2015

See all articles by Joseph Whitmeyer

Joseph Whitmeyer

University of North Carolina (UNC) at Charlotte

Rafael Wittek

University of Groningen

Date Written: January 1, 2010

Abstract

We use a model of continuous attachments in networks to generate propositions concerning inequalities in network structures, and test the propositions on data from organizational settings. Our network model, inspired by that of [Gould, Roger 2002. The origins of status hierarchies: A formal theory and empirical test. American Journal of Sociology 107, 1143-1178], is based on a theoretically informed actor model, in which each network member sets attachment strengths based on perceived partner quality, reciprocity, influence from others, attribute homophily, and attachment resistance. A computer algorithm finds the single robust equilibrium configuration of attachment strengths. This allows us to generate six propositions concerning inequalities at the individual, dyadic, triadic, and network levels. We test the propositions on network data for four kinds of attachments over four waves for five organizations, and find that the results generally support the propositions. The results suggest that partner quality, reciprocity, and attachment resistance are the most important elements in the network members’ choices.

Keywords: Social Networks, Mathematical Models, Organizations, Generative Models, Sampling, Inequality, Homophily, Influence, Reciprocity, Status Hierarchies

JEL Classification: C63, C15, D23

Suggested Citation

Whitmeyer, Joseph and Wittek, Rafael, Inequalities in Network Structures (January 1, 2010). Social Science Research , Vol. 39, No. 1, 2010, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2657138

Joseph Whitmeyer

University of North Carolina (UNC) at Charlotte ( email )

9201 University City Boulevard
Charlotte, NC 28223
United States

Rafael Wittek (Contact Author)

University of Groningen ( email )

Department of Sociology
Grote Rozenstraat 31
Groningen, 9712TG
Netherlands
+31503636282 (Phone)

HOME PAGE: http://www.rafaelwittek.eu/

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