The Moon or Sixpence? A Network Approach into Work Value Stratification
Aug 8, 2025·
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1 min read
Steve Liming Meng
Work Value Similarity NetworkAbstract
Drawing data from GSS 2016 work orientation module, I construct a work value similarity network. Using exponential family random graph models (ERGMs), I infer the stratification structure of work values and its socio-demographic causes. Further, with the distance matrix I develop a Relative Value Stance variable to measure one’s relative position in this cultural/value spectrum in respect of their distance to their own ingrained class culture and their upward affinity. My preliminary findings is that the logic lower- and working-class people recognize and make use of work value is distinct from middle- and upper-class people, probably determined by some aspects of social structure.
Type
Publication
Working Paper
This work is still in progress. It would not have been possible without the unwavering support and tireless help of Professor Arne L. Kalleberg at UNC, to whom I owe my deepest gratitude. I am also profoundly thankful to Professor Jim Moody at Duke, whose invaluable insights and critical suggestions greatly shaped and improved this work. The extended abstract of an early version of this work is accepted by 2025 ASA culture section roundtable, but due to visa concerns (I’m back to China in May) I’m considering giving up this chance to discuss it with other scholars.
