Near-winners in status competitions : neglected sources of dynamism in the Matthew Effect

Otner, Sarah M. G. (2018) Near-winners in status competitions : neglected sources of dynamism in the Matthew Effect. Journal of Management Inquiry, 27(4), pp. 374-377. ISSN (print) 1056-4926

Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1177/1056492617737711

Abstract

Current research on status hierarchy dynamics focuses on the potential for, and constraints to, individual mobility. In this essay, I argue that Merton’s Matthew Effect incorrectly categorizes activity below a status threshold as linear. This misspecification calls into question existing models of competitions for social status. I argue for an improved theory of status tournaments as asymmetric, non-binary, and agentic. Through that new perspective, I raise questions for the legitimacy and power of stratifying institutions.

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