Hierarchical influence structures in rural communities: a case study [Indiana]

Extract: This paper explores the effect of hierarchical positioning in the local community power network on hierarchical positioning in the action network. Placement in the power network is based on one's interorganizational leadership status, whereas location in the action network is derived from one's level of participation in locality-oriented programs. The analysis, based on data collected in a small Indiana community, reveals that hierarchical positioning in the power network serves as the critical determinant of location in the action network, even when personal assets of individual participants are considered.