Conflict Theory

CONFLICT THEORY WEBERIAN/ FORMAL View of Society/Characteristics/Premises -system of diverse groups struggling over scarce resources (wealth, power, prestige) -macro/meso level of analysis -objective, hierarchical, and fragmented -characterized by social inequality -different benefits for different categories of people -order = coercion/constraints and power -negotiation and compromise -change is inevitable and continuous -conflict promotes social change -inequality is result of struggle over scarce resources

-change is internal to system of conflicts...differentiation of parts Weaknesses and Criticisms -understates degree of cohesion and stability -little micro level analysis -ignores competition -is a “shadow” structural functionalism MARXIAN/ CRITICAL/ DIALECTICAL View of Society/Characteristics/Premises -inclusive of most of characteristics of Weberian Conflict Theory (above) -conditions giving rise to conflict -includes Micro level with active social actors creating Meso/Macro structures -inclusive of all levels of analysis and

reciprocity of them -Change is about internal arrangements AND about the system itself -Change is historical...temporal...ABOUT the system, not just within it -Change can be revolutionary...often quick and total -Change is inevitable given consciousness and material conditions Weaknesses and Criticisms -appears to be reductionist (i.e. economics) -too open ended...appears to lead to chaos Concepts/Issues/Terms (For BOTH types of Conflict Theory)

-interest-power-authority-dominanceconflict-coercion-patterns of inequalityprivilege-social position- social class-class consciousness-vested interests-alienationideology-stratification-racism-sexismcrime- exploitation-class strugglerevolution-means of production