2017/11/29 by Sarah M. G. Otner · 1 voice
Social Sciences · #Contemporary Sociological Theory and Practice #Social Power and Status Dynamics #Social and Cultural Dynamics
paper · doi:10.1177/1056492617737711
openalex publication_date 2017/11/29 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/05/21
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.