SOCIAL- CONFLICT APPROACH

The conflict approach stresses that the roots of social problems lie in the many forms of social
inequalities that characterized modern society. These inequalities are based on social class, race and
ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and age. Social problems both reflect and reinforce these
inequalities.

Conflict theory is based on the thought that groups always compete for limited resources and control,
resulting in inequalities in those groups and their associated professions. Conflict occurs when unequal
amounts of resources and power exist. The people with more power and resources try to maintain them
and may even do so by repressing those with less power and fewer resources.

German Philosopher Karl Marx developed conflict theory in the 19th century to explain the relationship
between the ruling and working classes in capitalist societies. Max Weber, a 19th century German
sociologist and economist, agreed with Marx’s theory that society was in constant conflict over
resources. However, he believed conflict theory applied to power on levels other than class inequalities,
including gender, race and religion. He also believed that social change can result from ideas and
conversation.

While Marx’s definition of inequality involved only economics, Weber’s included social ranking and
prominence, as well. He argued that the linked between economic class and social status was
sometimes unclear. For instance, an individual might be wealthy but have low social status, or little
wealth but lots of importance or fame.

Sociologists use conflict theory to explain conflict and inequality between groups, including:

 Social classes
 Genders
 Races
 Professions
 Religions
 Political groups
 Cultures

One of conflict theory’s main ideas is that power and conflict, rather than agreement and harmony,
control social order. This conflict and competition often provide inspiration that can lead to social
change.

Conflict theory’s assumptions

Conflict theory includes four main assumptions:

1.Competition

People are always competing for limited resources – money, material items, property -to provide for
their wants and needs. They’re also competing for immaterial things like power and success. This
competition is the foundation for all social interactions and relationships. The result is conflict, which
creates social classes, groups and hierarchy.
2. Structural inequality

When individuals and groups compete for resources, they inevitably experience inequalities. These
inequalities might be related to professions, rights or opportunities.

3. Revolution

Because social classes are in constant conflict, revolution is a common event. Social change and shifts in
power dynamics result from sudden, major conflicts rather than continuous adaption and evolution.
Revolution is how society changes and improves.

4. War

When competition between groups grows to a certain point, conflict between entire governments or
nations can occur. Major conflicts can either unite societies or provide ways for new social hierarchies
and group to form.

Examples of conflict theory

We can find examples of conflict theory throughout history and society. These include:

Global capitalism’s effect on inequality and power

 Pay inequalities between genders and races

 The 2008 financial crisis, in which large companies and banks received government bailouts
 Government attempts to manage conflict between privileged and underprivileged citizens
through financial tools like taxes, incentives, minimum wage and regulations
 Relationships between groups like landlords and renters or employers and employees
 Inequalities in the public education system, in which students have unequal opportunities for
success
 Inequalities in the criminal justice system