A rectangular array can represent dominance relationships within a group. Each row and column typically corresponds to a member of that group. The entries within the array quantify the dominance exerted by the member represented by the row over the member represented by the column. For instance, in a social hierarchy, a ‘1’ might indicate that the row member dominates the column member, while a ‘0’ indicates the reverse or the absence of a dominance relationship.
This structured representation allows for quantitative analysis of power dynamics. It facilitates identification of individuals or entities holding significant influence, mapping paths of control, and potentially predicting shifts in hierarchical structures. Historically, such representations have been employed in studies of animal behavior, social network analysis, and organizational management to understand and model patterns of interaction and influence.