The paper reports the results of two studies which examined propositions derived from equity theory concerning how persons distribute rewards to themselves and others. Such behavior can be classified into three types of distribution responses. Study 1 investigated the distribution responses of persons who each had unilateral power to determine their own rewards and those of one other person, when both had equal inputs. Results supported predictions generated from equity theory concerning the relative frequencies of distribution responses. Also, a number of situational and personal variables were found to affect responses. In Study 2, subjects distributed rewards in one of four groups constituted such that differences in the input levels of the chooser and his co-worker were systemically varied. Results only partially supported equity theory since only the inputs of the co-worker affected choices. Taken together, the results of both studies indicate that persons do conform to a norm of equity which lessens the potential for conflict present in all social situations. (Author).

Monograph of essays and research in the social psychology of behaviour control, with particular reference to the factors bearing on work organization and job design as they influence Motivation and job satisfaction - includes references.

The author is convinced that there is a ruling class in America today. He examines the American power structure as it has developed in the 1980s. He presents systematic, empirical evidence that a fixed group of privileged people dominates the American economy and government. The book demonstrates that an upper class comprising only one-half of one percent of the population occupies key positions within the corporate community. It shows how leaders within this "power elite" reach government and dominate it through processes of special-interest lobbying, policy planning and candidate selection. It is written not to promote any political ideology, but to analyze our society with accuracy.

Coercive Power in Social Exchange describes the progression and results of a decade-long program of experimental research on power in social exchange relations. Exchange theorists have traditionally excluded punishment and coercion from the scope of their analyses; Molm examines whether exchange theory can be expanded to include both reward and coercive power. Working within the framework of Emerson's power-dependence theory, but also drawing on the decision theory concepts of strategic action and loss aversion, Molm develops and tests a theory of coercion in social exchange that emphasizes the interdependence of these two bases of power. Her work shows that reward power and coercive power are fundamentally different, not only in their effects on behavior but also in the structural incentive to use power and the risks of power use. When exchanges are nonnegotiated and secured by the "shadow of the future", rather than by binding agreements, dependence both encourages and constrains the use of coercion.