Conflict & Consensus Theory

• What key theories have been examined in the series?

  Functionalism, Marxism, and Feminism
• What is the focus of this video?

  Evaluating consensus and conflict theories' usefulness
• How do consensus theories view society?

  As being in agreement over norms and values
• What do conflict theories suggest about society?

  It is divided into competing groups
• What does Marxism focus on in conflict theories?

  Social class divisions
• What do feminists argue about society?

  It is patriarchal and disadvantages females
• How do consensus and conflict theories differ in their views on socialization?

  Consensus sees it as beneficial for society
• What do both theories agree on regarding social institutions?

  They have the most influence in society
• What do consensus theories believe about status achievement?

  It is based on hard work
• How do conflict theories view the allocation of status?

  It replicates the dominant position of the ruling class
• What functions does education serve according to consensus theories?

  • Teaching specialist skills
  • Reinforcing social solidarity
  • Promoting British values
  • Socializing into norms and values
• What do feminists argue about the education system?

  It prepares students for traditional roles
• How do conflict theories explain the underachievement of working-class students?

  They are prepared for low-level employment
• What does Archer's research focus on regarding working-class girls?

  Hyper-heterosexual identities dismissing education
• How do consensus and conflict theories apply to crime?

  • Consensus theories focus on dysfunction
  • Conflict theories focus on misrepresentation
  • Both offer explanations for contemporary crime
• What does Merton's theory suggest about the American Dream?

  Structural inequality prevents achievement
• What do Marxists argue about crime statistics?

  Working-class crime is over-represented
• What does Adler's liberation thesis address?

  Rising female criminality and aspirations
• What are the implications of Durkheim's views on social solidarity?

  • Relevant in response to crime
  • Seen in reactions to terrorism
  • Acknowledges collective societal responses
• How do consensus theories view the response to shocking events?

  They demonstrate social solidarity
• What does the Roundtree Foundation report about poverty in the UK?

  Approximately 14 million people live in poverty
• What do conflict theories suggest about media representation?

  It highlights class divisions and moral panics
• How do conflict theories remain relevant today?

  They address ongoing social inequalities
• What is the significance of the wage pay gap in feminism?

  It highlights ongoing gender inequality
• What has been the trend in racial inequality in the UK?

  Reversal of trends in racial inequality
• How do conflict theories view the representation of minority ethnic groups?

  They highlight under-representation in media
• Which approach is deemed more useful in understanding contemporary society?

  Conflict theories have more relevance
• What are the reactions to traditional conservative ideals in society?

  • Increased relevance of conflict theories
  • Adaptation of new right thinkers
  • Division in responses to social issues