Conflict Theory: Analyzing Struggles Over Resources and Power

Imagine a workplace where the marketing and sales departments clash over resources. The marketing team feels underfunded compared to sales, causing resentment and poor collaboration. Why do these conflicts arise, and what do they reveal about human behaviour and social structures? This scenario touches on the essence of conflict theory: a framework that suggests societal structures create inequalities and tensions as groups compete for inadequate resources.

Conflict theory is a psychological & sociological framework that focuses on the struggles between various groups in a society. It posits that society is in a state of never-ending conflict because of a battle of finite resources. Originally proposed by Karl Marx, this theory claims that societal structure favours the elite thus creating competition & friction among the groups. In psychology, Conflict Theory throws light on how these inequalities influence the behaviour of individuals and groups.

Conflict Theory: It’s History and Key Thinkers

German philosopher Karl Marx introduced this theory and is known as the “Father of Conflict Theory“. Marx explained this theory by showing how the working class produces goods for the upper class. This theory was later developed by many other sociologists.

Max Weber expanded the theory to include politics, race, gender, and education, highlighting how inequality worsens conflict.

Ida B. Wells used it to analyze race and feminism, particularly during the increased lynching rates and the suffragist movement.

W.E.B. DuBois applied it to racism, focusing on the struggles of Black people in the U.S.

C. Wright Mills examined it through the power of large organizations, suggesting an elite class formed by government, military, and corporations.

Bernie Sanders highlighted it in modern politics, pointing out how campaign donations influence politicians.

Conflict Theory: Core Principles 

The core principles of this theory are power, resource competition, and inequality. 

• Power plays a key role in maintaining social order, as those who control resources and institutions use their authority to dominate others. For example, in a company, higher authorities with more power prioritize projects that benefit them, snubbing the needs of lower-level employees.
• Competition arises because the resources available are limited and groups compete amongst them for it. For example, in real estate, buyers compete for good properties. This competition increases demand and price, making it harder for low-income individuals to buy good properties.
• Inequality is formed as a result of competition for power. Unequal distribution of limited resources leads to social tension. For example, in the education sector, students from affluent families get to join better schools, while those from poorer backgrounds face a lot of barriers.

Conflict Theory vs Functionalism 

Conflict Theory and Functionalism are two prominent sociological perspectives that offer contrasting views on how societies operate and evolve.

Conflict Theory posits that society is marked by inequality and conflict over limited resources, such as wealth, power, and status. Functionalism, on the other hand, views society as a complex system where various parts work independently yet together to maintain social stability. 

Conflict Theory believes that conflict and struggle between opposing parties lead to social change. While, Functionalism views social change as gradual and evolutionary, often occurring in response to societal needs and challenges.

Conflict Theory highlights that consensus is attained as a product of dominance rather than genuine agreement among the society. Whereas, Functionalism sees social institutions working harmoniously to improve societal needs. 

Conflict Theory: Its applications in real Life

Conflict Theory is applied in every facet of society where there is inequality, power dominance and resource allocation disparity. Here are a few real-time applications of Conflict Theory.

• Gender Inequality: Conflict Theory helps analyze how there is an ongoing disparity in society based on gender. Historically women have unequal access to opportunities and resources than men. This in turn affects the self-concept and aspirations of women.
• Workplace Inequality: Conflict Theory deciphers how those with less power manifest their discriminations as labour strikes against those in power. Collective frustration raised due to workers’ dissatisfaction results in a fight against the management.
• Economic Inequality: Conflict Theory explains how struggles stem from economic imbalance. The wealthy enjoy more resources thus making them more powerful. They take advantage of this power to influence and rule the poor. This shows how socioeconomic status influences the overall well-being of an individual.

Though we apply Conflict Theory in multiple scenarios of our daily lives, it has its pitfalls.

Conflict Theory: limitations 

• This theory is criticized for its over-emphasis on concepts of conflict and inequality. The theory fails to take into consideration the other aspects of the society. 

• It underestimates the value of individual agency, cooperation and enriching diversity.

• It has not addressed the cultural dimensions of social life and has focused more on struggles due to economic disparity.

• It has overlooked how sometimes stability and consensus are achieved in a society despite inequalities. 

Conflict Theory: Relevance in Modern Times

Despite its criticism, conflict theory continues to be relevant in modern times by offering insights into persistent social issues such as economic inequality, gender biases, and political power dynamics. It illuminates the underlying factors that fuel societal changes and conflicts.

In conclusion, Conflict Theory provides a valuable lens to understand the underlying causes of workplace tensions, societal inequalities, and power dynamics. By highlighting the struggles over limited resources and the role of power in maintaining social order, this theory reveals the root of conflicts and helps address issues like economic disparity, gender inequality, and organizational clashes. Despite its limitations, Conflict Theory remains relevant, offering insights into how societal structures can create and perpetuate conflicts, ultimately guiding us towards more equitable solutions and a deeper understanding of human behaviour within social frameworks.

FAQs

1. What is Conflict Theory?

Conflict theory is a psychological & sociological framework that focuses on the struggles between various groups in a society. It posits that society is in a state of never-ending conflict because of a battle of finite resources.

2. Who proposed Conflict Theory?

Karl Marx proposed Conflict Theory and he is also known as The Father Of Conflict Theory.

3. What are the core principles of conflict theory?

Power, competition and inequality 

4. Name a few applications of Conflict Theory in real-life

Economic Inequality, Gender Inequality, Workplace Inequality