realistic conflict theory evaluation Flashcards
EAST - Evidence of realistic conflict theory
Robbers cave experiment 1961!!
- provides strong empirical evidence/support for RCT
Two groups of boys at a summer camp developed hostility and negative attitudes towards each other when placed in competitive situations, however the hostility was deuces through the use of superordinate goals
EAST - Application of realistic conflict theory
- RCT can be applied to understand real world intergroup conflicts such as those involving ethnic or national groups competing for land, economic resources or political power
- The theory is useful in designing conflict resolution strategies that reduce intergroup conflict by promoting superordinate goals that require cooperation between group (peace negotiations, community projects)
EAST - Strengths and shortcomings of realistic conflict theory
Strengths:
- RCT is backed by well controlled experiments like robbers cave study which provides clear evidence for how competition can lead to intergroup hostility
- the theory offers practical solutions for reducing Intergroup conflict through the use fo superordinate goals that require
- RCT effectively predicts when intergroup conflict is likely to occur and when it is likely to be reduced
Shortcomings:
- REDUCTIONIST!!! Oversimplifies Intergroup conflict by focusing mainly on resource competition and ignoring other factors eg. Cultural, historical
- doesn’t fully explain conflict that arises without direct competition for resources eg. Religious conflicts
- ETHNOCENTRIC BIAS!! The study is more applicable to western individualistic cultures and may not apply to non-western collectivist cultures
EAST - Alternative of realistic conflict theory
Social identity theory!!
Suggests that group conflict and prejudice arises from group categorisation and group membership
- highlights the psychological and social factors offering a broader understanding into causes of Intergroup conflict
