ABSTRACT

In science, rank is primarily achieved, not ascribed. But even when upward m obility is based on meritocratic principles, it in­ volves a process of accum ulation of advantage 1 that helps to shape, maintain, and m odify the structure of stratification in science, as it does in other merit-oriented systems. T o learn som ething about cumulative effects in the careers of N obel laureates and other members of the scientific elite, we turn first to more general aspects of this self-reinforc­ ing pattern in science.