Conflict theories examine how social life is shaped by competing interests, unequal power, and struggles over resources. This lesson introduces the perspective and traces key classical contributions.
Conflict theories argue that individuals and groups often interact through competition and conflict rather than through lasting agreement. They draw attention to power differences, including differences in wealth, status, authority, and access to resources. These differences help shape social arrangements, institutions, and movements for change.
All flashcards
What do conflict theories emphasize?
They examine how competing interests and unequal power shape social arrangements and struggles over resources.
What does macro-level analysis examine?
Broad social structures and patterns, including how power and resources are distributed across groups.
How did Georg Simmel use conflict?
He used conflict as a framework for understanding social relationships and change.
What was Ludwig Gumplowicz's account of hierarchy?
War and conquest could subordinate groups and contribute to complex hierarchies, including caste systems.
How did Lester F. Ward view social reform?
He believed sociological study and deliberate reform could improve social arrangements and support human progress.
Quiz questions
According to Marx, which classes have opposing interests at the center of conflict under capitalism?Answer: The bourgeoisie, who control productive property, and the proletariat, who sell their labor.
Which emphasis distinguishes Weber's approach from Marx's stronger focus on social and economic structures?Answer: How individuals interpret situations and act within social conditions and power relations.
Which groups did C. Wright Mills connect in his description of the United States power elite?Answer: Corporate leaders, senior military figures, and the executive branch of government.
According to Gene Sharp, what can weaken rulers' ability to exercise political power?Answer: People withdrawing their obedience and cooperation through coordinated nonviolent action.
What question does a conflict approach ask about apparent social consensus?Answer: Whether it reflects genuine agreement or the influence of more powerful groups.
Based on the Wikipedia article Conflict theories, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.