“CONFLICT THEORY”
Objective:
Explain the Conflict theory of Karl Marx
Describe existing conflict in Society
State the weaknesses and strength of conflict theory
Recognize the assumption of confliy theory
In able to know the importance of conflict Theory
How to use Conflict Theory to resolve disagreement
introduction
In sociology, conflict theory states that society or an organization functions so that
each individual participant and its groups struggle to maximize their benefits, which
inevitably contributes to social change such as political changes and revolutions.
A theory that society is in a state of perpetual conflict because of competition for
limited resources. Conflict theory holds that social order is maintained by domination
and power, rather than by consensus and conformity.
The theory is mostly applied to explain conflict between social classes, proletariat
versus bourgeoisie; and in ideologies such as capitalism versus socialism.
Although some theorists, such as Karl Marx, have claimed that growth and
development occur though the conflict between opposing parties, cooperation is also
a source of healthy growth.
history
Conflict theory originated in the work of Karl Marx, who focused on the causes and
consequences of class conflict between the bourgeoisie (the owners of the means of
production and the capitalists) and the proletariat (the working class and the poor).
Focusing on the economic, social, and political implications of
the rise of capitalism in Europe, Marx theorized that this system, premised on the
existence of a powerful minority class (the bourgeoisie) and an oppressed majority class
(the proletariat), created class conflict because the interests of the two were at odds, and
resources were unjustly distributed among them.
Its premise is simple. Developed by Karl Marx, it suggests that society exists in a perpetual
state of conflict, rather than harmony.
This is because we are all competing for the same, finite resources. In other words, for
each social resource, there is a potential for conflict.
Marx stated that the wealthy in society will always protect their resources and keep them
hidden away. The poor will try and obtain wealth using any means necessary.
As a result, there is a constant struggle between these two groups – the rich and the poor.
Both individuals and groups within society will strive to benefit themselves over others.
Karl Marx is certainly among the most significant social thinkers in recent history. While
there are many critics of his work, it is still widely respected and influential.
For Marx, society’s constructions were predicated upon the idea of “base and
superstructure.” This term refers to the idea that a society’s economic character forms its
base, upon which rests the culture and social institutions, the superstructure.
Understanding conflict
Conflict is defined as a clash between individuals arising out of a
difference in thought process, attitudes, understanding, interests,
requirements and even sometimes perceptions.
It is a natural disagreement resulting from individuals or groups
that differ in attitudes, beliefs, values or needs.
A conflict results in heated arguments, physical abuses and
definitely loss of peace and harmony.
It can also originate from past rivalries and personality
differences.
Conflict can be seen as an opportunity for learning and
understanding our differences.
This is usually fueled by the opposition of one party to another, in
an attempt to reach an objective different from that of the other
party.
KARL MARX
Karl Marx (1818-1883)
Humanist: wanted all individuals to reach their full human potential.
Father Of Modern Socialism, Communism And founder of Conflict Theory.
Believe humans make their own history (historical method)
Controlling material production division of labor formation of
economic social classes class struggle.
Trying to combine material and ideal factors/structural and cultural factors.
His Conflict Theory Was Also Influenced By His Personal Life And Wrote
Number Of Books, Articles And Research Papers.
EXPLANATION:
Conflict theory examines any social phenomenon through the lens that there is a
natural human instinct towards conflict.
Marx is not saying that conflict is good or bad, but instead that it is an unavoidable
aspect of human nature and helps explain why things are.
For example, conflict theory can be used to look at wars, violence, revolutions, and
other forms of injustice and discrimination by explaining that there is a natural
disparity in a society that causes these problems.
A
S COMPETITION: Scarcity of resources(tangible/intangible)creates conflict.
S
U
M REVOLUTION: Conflict amongst social classes rise to revolution.
P
T STRUCTURAL INEQUALITY: If all are equal, there maybe no reason to
I
conflict.
O
N
What did?
Karl Marx asserted that all elements of a
society's structure depend on its economic
structure. Additionally, Marx saw conflict
in society as the primary means of change.
Economically, he saw conflict existing
between the owners of the means of production
—the bourgeoisie—and the laborers,
called the proletariat.
Main Points
Whatof
did?Conflict Theory
Limited resources lead to competition between groups in
society.
These groups are the rich ruling class or the poor working class.
The competition is usually economic or social with the ruling
class dominating over the working class.
STENGTHS WEAKNESSES
COMPETITION S0CIAL INEQUALITY
SOCIAL CHANGE ABSOLUTE
SOCIAL STRUCTURE CONNNECTION TO
AND ORGANIZATION SOCIALISM
MACRO LEVEL DOMINATION OF ONE
ANALYSIS GROUP
How is religion related to social conflict?
Religion reinforces and promotes social inequality and social
conflict. It helps convince the poor to accept their lot in life, and
it leads to hostility and violence motivated
by religious differences. This perspective focuses on the ways in
which individuals interpret their religious experiences.
“Conflict analysis on religion”
According to Marx:
Marx is often quoted that “religion is the opium of the people.”
Marx maintained that the happiness and rewards promised by religion are
merely illusions.
Religion helps maintained social inequality by justifying oppression and is an
institution that justifies and perpetuates the ills of society.
The inequality and social injustice that exist in the society are reflected within
the religious institutions themselves.(e.g. race, class or gender stratification.)
Religious practice and rituals define group boundaries within society.
According to Marx, religion is a matter of ideology not of faith, focusing more
on social needs and aspirations than on spirituality.
1 theorists don't see these factors as positive functions of society. They see them as evidence of inequality i
theory looks to social and economic factors as the causes of crime and deviance. Unlike functionalists, conflict
1 theorists don't see these factors as positive functions of society. They see them as evidence of inequalit
lict theory looks to social and economic factors as the causes of crime and deviance. Unlike functionalists, conflict
1
How does conflict theory view crime?
In conflict theory, deviant behaviors are actions that do not comply
with social institutions.
Conflict theory is based upon the view that the fundamental causes of
crime are the social and economic forces operating within society.
Conflict theory looks to social and economic factors as the causes of
crime and deviance. Unlike functionalists, conflict theorists don't see
these factors as positive functions of society. They see them as
evidence of inequality in the system.
CRITICISM
Focus on change and neglect of social stability.
Change is minor or incremental not revolutionary.
Inequalities in power and reward are built into
social structures.
Individuals and group who benefit also strive to
see it maintained.
Sides with people who lack power.
Ignores other ways (i.e. non-forceful ways in which
people reach agreements.)
Focuses on economic factors as the sole issue for
all conflict in society.
importance
Conflict theory posits that social groups or classes compete with each other in order
to obtain resources that the society deems important. A realistic social conflict theory is
an understanding of the positive role of social conflict in serving the common good.
Conflict fosters an awareness that problems exist. Discussing conflicting views can lead to
better solutions. Managing conflict is quicker and more efficient than letting conflicts
fester. Challenging old assumptions can lead to changes in outdated practices and
processes.
It helps in unifying a society or a group when some external aggression occurs. Conflict
prevents the ossification of the social system by exerting pressure for innovation and
creativity.
Conflict plays a corresponding role in group organization. Groups reach the
maximum of unity and solidarity in overt conflict.
People will share a sense of belonging and social membership. They’ll
create boundaries between those who belong and those don’t. Some will
feel so incensed that they’ll take action.
In fact, the conflict itself tends to create a sense of solidarity and pull in
others who might not ordinarily join the fight.
How to Use Conflict Theory to Resolve Disagreements
Conflict is not a contest. If you go into an argument to win at all costs, you
are not going to resolve the conflict.
How t
Look at the problem from the other person’s perspective. This means putting
yourself in their shoes.
Find out the root of the inequality.
Be open-minded about resolutions and solutions. Your partner or colleague
might have an idea of how to resolve the conflict.
Listen to the other person. When people feel listened to and validated they
are more likely to open up and the level of trust increases.
Leave emotion out. Be matter-of-fact when discussing a possible solution.
Conflict increases when emotions rise.
Focus on the problem, not the person. It helps to take the personality out of
the equation and keep your attention on the source of the conflict.
Don’t criticize, respect. Nothing shuts down a conversation more than
criticism. However, showing respect does the opposite.
CONCLUSION
Conflict theory focuses on the competition between groups within society
over limited resources.
Conflict theory views social and economic institutions as tools of the
struggle between groups or classes, used to maintain inequality and the
dominance of the ruling class.
Marxist conflict theory sees society as divided along lines of economic class
between the proletarian working class and the bourgeois ruling class.
Later versions of conflict theory look at other dimensions of conflict among
capitalist factions and between various social, religious, and other types of
(Group 4)
Diane B. Gonsalbo
Ericka May M. Padua
Catherine Salubre
April Janine Pineda
Aimee Vivas
BS-Criminology
1203