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Unlock This CourseConflict theory is one of the major theoretical perspectives in sociology. It looks at society as a place where different groups compete for power, resources and influence. Unlike consensus theories that focus on how society stays stable through shared values, conflict theory examines the tensions and struggles between different social groups.
Key Definitions:
Conflict theorists see society as divided by inequalities and competition, leading to constant struggle between groups. Consensus theorists (like functionalists) see society as stable and cooperative, held together by shared values and norms.
Conflict theory focuses on power imbalances, competition for resources and how dominant groups maintain their privileged positions while subordinate groups struggle for equality and justice.
Karl Marx (1818-1883) is considered the founder of conflict theory. His analysis of capitalism and class struggle provided the foundation for this perspective in sociology.
Marx believed that economic forces drive history and society. He argued that capitalism creates two main social classes with opposing interests:
The capitalist class who own the means of production (factories, land, machinery). They make profit by exploiting workers and paying them less than the value they create.
The working class who sell their labour to survive. They have little control over their work and are alienated from what they produce.
According to Marx, the relationship between these classes is inherently exploitative. The bourgeoisie extract surplus value from workers' labour to generate profit. This creates class conflict, which Marx believed would eventually lead to revolution and the overthrow of capitalism.
During the Industrial Revolution in Britain (late 18th to 19th century), factory owners amassed enormous wealth while workers endured dangerous conditions, long hours and low wages. Child labour was common, with children as young as 5 working in mines and factories. This period clearly illustrated Marx's analysis of class exploitation and the harsh realities of early capitalism. Workers eventually organised into unions to fight for better conditions, demonstrating class conflict in action.
While Marx focused primarily on economic class conflict, modern conflict theorists have expanded the perspective to examine other forms of social inequality and power struggles.
Examines power imbalances between men and women in patriarchal societies. Feminist theory often uses conflict perspectives to analyse gender inequality.
Analyses how racial and ethnic groups compete for resources and power and how dominant groups maintain privilege through discrimination and oppression.
Looks at how social institutions like education, religion and the legal system can reinforce inequality and serve the interests of powerful groups.
Several sociologists have developed and expanded conflict theory since Marx:
Conflict theorists argue that education reproduces inequality. Schools in wealthy areas receive better funding, while working-class students may be tracked into vocational paths. The hidden curriculum teaches students to accept their position in society. Educational qualifications serve as gatekeepers to higher-status jobs.
The workplace is seen as a site of conflict between employers seeking to maximise profits and workers seeking better pay and conditions. Globalisation has allowed companies to move production to countries with lower wages and fewer regulations, weakening workers' bargaining power.
The 2017 Grenfell Tower fire in London, which killed 72 people, illustrates conflict theory in action. The tower block housed primarily working-class and immigrant residents. Investigations revealed that cheaper, flammable cladding had been used during renovations to improve the building's appearance for wealthy neighbours. Residents' safety concerns had been repeatedly ignored by authorities. Conflict theorists would point to this tragedy as evidence of how the interests of the powerful (property developers, local council) were prioritised over the safety of marginalised groups.
To fully understand conflict theory, it's helpful to compare it with consensus perspectives like functionalism:
| Aspect | Conflict Theory | Consensus Theory |
|---|---|---|
| View of Society | Divided by competing interests | United by shared values |
| Social Order | Maintained through power and coercion | Maintained through agreement and cooperation |
| Social Change | Occurs through conflict and revolution | Occurs through gradual adaptation |
| Inequality | Harmful and exploitative | Necessary for society to function |
Conflict theory provides a powerful lens for examining social problems and inequalities. By focusing on power imbalances and competing interests, it helps us understand why certain groups benefit more than others from social arrangements. While it has limitations, conflict theory remains essential for analysing issues like economic inequality, discrimination and social movements.
Understanding conflict theory helps us recognise that many social problems aren't just the result of individual failings but are rooted in structural inequalities. This perspective encourages critical thinking about the status quo and consideration of how society might be organised more equitably.