Conflcit Theory (also Known As Critical Theory) (from Chapter 1)

Question 1

What is conflict theory?

Answer 1

Based on the idea that conflict exists in all large societies due to class division and is the motor of major-historical change

Question 2

Conflict theory is based on the four C’s, what are they?

Answer 2

1. Conflict: exists in all large societies
2. Class: has existed in every society
3. Contestation: functions can be contested by asking “what group does this function best serve?”
4. Change: society either will or should be changed

Question 3

Karl Marx and conflict theory, what he said about society?

Answer 3

Society is a hierarchy and each group’s position in the hierarchy is determined by the group’s role in production of wealth

Question 4

Who did Marx see conflict between?

Answer 4

Marx saw conflict between the bourgeoisie (the capitalists) and the proletariat (the workers), which would initiate a socialist revolution that would produce an egalitarian (classless) society

Question 5

What were Karl Marx’s insights about class conflict and capitalist production?

Answer 5

Marx’s insights about class conflict and capitalist production are still valid and conflict theory found new applications in feminist sociology, queer theory, anti-colonialism, and other critical sociology approaches

Purports that society is in a state of perpetual conflict because of competition for limited resources. Conflict theory holds that social order is maintained by domination and power, rather than by consensus and conformity