Bureaucratic success in the joseon dynasty: a computational study of intergenerational mobility patterns

Abstract

朝鮮王朝實錄), which provide accounts of the social and political actions of these bureaucrats. Although both sources are rich in historical information, integrating them into a single comprehensive dataset has been a complex task, particularly due to the difficulties in accurately identifying individuals. This research represents an initial effort to create a connected dataset between these two important historical records, which could be seen as a step forward in the field of digital history. Through this study, the Total Success Index (TSI) was developed as a tool to potentially shed some light on the inner workings of the society of the Joseon Dynasty. This index is intended to introduce new methods and uncover facts that might improve our understanding of the history of the Joseon Dynasty. It suggests the potential role that digital history could play in exploring the complexities of historical social systems.

兩班), and the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty (조선왕조실록

文科榜目), a historical record detailing the profiles of the Yangban (양반

Digital history, utilizing techniques such as data archiving, retrieval, and statistical analysis, aims to offer new methodologies and perspectives for understanding the complex social systems of the pre-modern socieities. This field often requires the collection of extensive and detailed historical data, which can be a formidable challenge, especially given the limitations in conducting social experiments or reconstructions within pre-modern social frameworks. This study aims to analyze the official positions and ranks of bureaucrats in the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1894), who progressed through Gwageo. The focus of this research is on two primary sources: the Mungwa Bangmok (문과방목