Examining the Self-Perpetuating Nature of Social Hierarchy

Abstract

Hierarchies are a common and persistent aspect of social life. However, their stability in the face of their immense cost to those in positions of little power and authority largely remains a mystery. We bring together four papers that provide novel insight into how hierarchy shapes psychological processes and behaviors in a manner that perpetuates and intensifies inequality. First, Guillory & Lowery demonstrate that fear of losing power motivates dominant groups to turn on their most dedicated members in an effort to appease subordinates. Next, Mead, Vohs & Baumeister show that being atop the hierarchy may unleash individuals’ narcissistic tendencies and promote aggressive hierarchy maintenance behaviors. Then, Overbeck, Han & Stanton illustrate how the subtle nonverbal cues of a single subordinate’s deference reinforce budding hierarchies and amplify power differentials in groups. Finally, Ines and Cable show that as the dominant gender group, men may attempt to maintain their position of dominance through poorly evaluating the performance of women with high as opposed to low past professional accomplishments. Together, our works provide some of the first insight into the self-perpetuating nature of social hierarchy, with implications for the persistence and pervasiveness of power and status oriented workplace issues. Power Causes Socially Harmful Behavior Because it Unleashes Narcissism Presenter: Nicole Mead; IRIC - Tilburg U. Presenter: Kathleen Vohs; Carlson School of Management Presenter: Roy Baumeister; Florida State U. Behavioral cues of deference by one follower make leaders seem more powerful Presenter: Jennifer R. Overbeck; Eccles School, U. of Utah Presenter: Albert Han; U. of Southern California Presenter: Dustin Stanton; U. of Southern California