CONFLICT THEORY

• • Conflict theory argues society is charecterised by social inequality and those in power who use their position to maintain dominance over others
• • Conflict theorists emphasise the importance of power, inequality and social change and argue that social structures and institutions serve to reinforce existing power relationships
• • Conflict theory has been applied to issues such as race inequality and class, theorists argue that inequalities are preserved by the dominant groups in society
• • 2 of most dominant conflict theories: Marxism, Feminism
• Criticisms of conflict theory

  • Overlooks ways which people can work together to achieve common goals
  • Underestimates the importance of shared norms and values and in promoting social order