Conflict theory, prominently linked with Karl Marx, asserts that society is in a continuous state of conflict due to competition for scarce resources. According to this theory, social order is perpetuated through domination and coercion rather than consensus and conformity. Those with wealth and power strive to maintain their status by subjugating the poor and powerless.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on Competition: Conflict theory emphasizes the struggle among social groups over limited resources.
- Economic Divide: It highlights the division of society along economic lines, primarily between the working class (proletariat) and the ruling elite (bourgeoisie).
- Tool for Inequality: Social institutions are viewed as instruments for maintaining inequality and the ruling class’s dominance.
- Expansion Beyond Economics: Modern adaptations of conflict theory examine conflicts among various social, religious, and political groups, beyond the economic focus.
Understanding Conflict Theory
Philosophers and sociologists have long used conflict theories to elucidate phenomena such as wars, revolutions, poverty, discrimination, and domestic violence.
Marx’s conflict theory centered on two main classes: the bourgeoisie, who possess the majority of wealth and resources, and the proletariat, the working class. Marx predicted that the capitalist system would drive the bourgeoisie to exploit the proletariat, leading to societal conflicts maintained through ideological coercion. If societal inequalities become too pronounced, Marx argued that revolutions—or reversals of power structures—would arise.
Special Considerations
Marx saw capitalism as part of an economic system evolution, rooted in commodities. He likened labor to a commodity; since workers do not own production means, they can be undervalued over time, potentially leading to social unrest and eventual economic liberation through revolution.
Adaptations of Marxist Conflict Theory
The German sociologist Max Weber expanded upon Marxist conflict theory by adding multiple layers of societal conflict beyond economic issues. Weber integrated emotional dimensions and interaction variations into his conflicts theory, acknowledging that social interactions can create collective beliefs and solidarity, which might differ depending on group dynamics and perceived legitimacy of those in power.
Today’s conflict theorists continue to explore beyond economic classes, incorporating race, gender, and other identity factors into the analysis of societal inequalities.
Real-World Applications of Conflict Theory
Conflict theorists interpret landlord-tenant relationships as intrinsic conflicts. The competition over limited resources—tenants desiring affordable, quality housing and landlords maximizing rental income—manifests in various societal tensions.
The 2008 financial crisis and subsequent bank bailouts exemplify conflict theory, highlighting how economic inequalities and institutional power enable certain groups to control resources disproportionately, to the disadvantage of wider social interests.
Closing Thoughts on Conflict Theory
Conflict theory presents a critical framework for understanding ongoing struggles over power and resources in society. By emphasizing issues of power, control, and inequality, the theory has profoundly shaped sociopolitical discourse and continues to be relevant in analyzing contemporary societal dynamics.
Common Criticisms of Conflict Theory
One criticism is that conflict theory often overlooks how economic interactions can be mutually beneficial. For instance, while employers and employees may be seen as having conflicting interests over wages and labor, there often exists a functional harmony supported by various compensation structures and shared successes.
The Thinker Behind Conflict Theory
Karl Marx, the 19th-century political philosopher who spearheaded the development of communism, is credited with pioneering conflict theory. Marx’s seminal works, The Communist Manifesto and Das Kapital, continue to influence economic and political thought, serving as foundational texts for understanding class struggle and capitalist critique.
Related Terms: Social Order, Power Dynamics, Wealth Inequality, Class Structure.
References
- University of North Carolina, Pembroke. “Social Work Theories”.
- OpenEd CUNY. “Theoretical Perspectives on Society: Karl Marx and Conflict Theory.”
- Stanford University, Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. “Karl Marx”.
- OpenEd CUNY. “Theoretical Perspectives: Conflict Theory.”
- University of Minnesota Duluth. [“Sociological Theory: The Basics of Conflict Theory”](https://www.d.umn.edu/cla/faculty/jhamlin/4111/Conflict_Theory/Conflict Theory.htm).
- Alan Sears and James Cairns. “A Good Book, In Theory”. Pages 40-41. University of Toronto Press, 2015.
