A Model of Robust Positions in Social Networks1

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 extends Herfindahl's index of concentration by b...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The American journal of sociology 2010-11, Vol.116 (3), p.943-992
Main Authors: Bothner, Matthew S., Smith, Edward Bishop, White, Harrison C.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Academic departments
Dependents
Fraternities & sororities
Hiring
Social networks
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary: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 extends Herfindahl's index of concentration by bringing in the recursiveness of Bonacich's method. Using Newcomb's study of a college fraternity, we find empirical support for the contention that fragility reduces future growth in status. Applications of the model to input-output networks among industries in the U.S. economy and to hiring networks among academic departments are also presented. Implications for future research are discussed.
ISSN:0002-9602
1537-5390
DOI:10.1086/658293