realistic conflict theory

• What is the purpose of discussing real-life intergroup conflicts in pairs or small groups?

  To analyze examples of competition and conflict resolution among different groups
• What are some examples of intergroup conflicts mentioned in the study material?

  Wars, sports rivalries, and competition between businesses
• What factors can lead to racial tensions over job opportunities?

  Competition between racial or ethnic groups during economic recessions
• How do racial tensions manifest in the UK and the US during economic downturns?

  Immigrants are perceived as competing with native citizens for jobs
• What resource has historically caused conflict among countries in the Middle East?

  Oil resources
• Why is oil considered a valuable resource in the context of intergroup conflict?

  It is essential for economic growth and energy needs
• What conflict arose between Iraq and Kuwait during the Gulf War?

  Competition for control over oil fields
• What is gentrification and how does it lead to conflict in urban areas?

  Wealthier newcomers moving into working-class neighborhoods increases housing costs
• What does Realistic Conflict Theory (RCT) suggest about prejudice?

  Competition for limited resources is a key factor in intergroup relations
• What are intergroup relations?

  Interactions between individuals in different social groups and between the groups themselves
• How does competition affect prejudice according to Sherif's theory?

  Competing groups experience intensified prejudice and hostility
• What types of resources can lead to conflict between groups?

  Material resources, political power, prestige, and authority
• What happens when compromise is possible regarding resources?

  Prejudice and discrimination levels are lower
• What is negative interdependence?

  When groups compete for limited resources, leading to conflict and hostility
• How does negative interdependence affect group dynamics?

  It leads to in-group favoritism and out-group hostility
• What is positive interdependence?

  When groups must work together to achieve a common goal
• How can superordinate goals promote positive interdependence?

  By encouraging cooperation between groups to achieve a significant goal
• What is the significance of Sherif's Robbers Cave Experiment in relation to RCT?

  It demonstrates that competition leads to intergroup hostility and prejudice
• What are the strengths of Sherif's Robbers Cave Experiment?

  • Conducted in a natural setting, increasing ecological validity
  • Provides insights into real-world intergroup conflicts
  • Suggests methods for conflict resolution and peacebuilding
• What are the limitations of Sherif's Robbers Cave Experiment?

  • Sample bias: only young, white, middle-class boys
  • Ethical concerns: lack of informed consent and potential psychological harm
  • Artificial competition may not reflect real-world dynamics
• What does Tajfel’s minimal group experiment suggest about prejudice?

  Prejudice can arise from simply perceiving someone as 'not like me'
• How can RCT be applied to reduce prejudice in society?

  By promoting cooperation through superordinate goals
• What is an example of a superordinate goal in the context of RCT?

  The Paris agreement on climate change
• What are the key components of Realistic Conflict Theory?

  • Competition for limited resources leads to prejudice
  • Negative interdependence results in hostility
  • Positive interdependence promotes cooperation
  • Superordinate goals can reduce conflict