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Questions and Answers
What does conflict theory primarily focus on?
Which two social classes are fundamentally involved in Marxist conflict theory?
What is termed as the source of conflict in Marx’s analysis?
What does class consciousness refer to in the context of conflict theory?
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How did Max Weber's view of conflict theory differ from Karl Marx's perspective?
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What did Marx propose as a solution to the cycle of conflict in capitalist systems?
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According to Marx, what happens as socio-economic conditions worsen for the proletariat?
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Which of the following examples is relevant to modern social conflicts discussed in conflict theory?
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What are the three main sources of conflict according to Max Weber's conflict theory?
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How does conflict theory view the role of education in society?
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According to C. Wright Mills, what is the role of elite individuals in society?
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What aspect of family dynamics does conflict theory highlight?
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According to conflict theory, what is said to be 'normal' in human interaction?
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What does the term 'heteropatriarchal nature' refer to in the context of traditional families?
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How do wealthy families perpetuate their societal status according to conflict theory?
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Which of the following is NOT an assumption of conflict theory?
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Study Notes
Conflict Theory
- Founded by Karl Marx, a German philosopher and economist, conflict theory emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries
- Focuses on power struggles and inequalities between different social groups
- Views society as inherently conflicting, with groups vying for control and resources
Marx's Perspective
- Emphasized the conflict between the bourgeoisie (wealthy capitalists) and the proletariat (working class)
- Argued that the bourgeoisie exploit the proletariat by paying them low wages while reaping profits from their labor
- Believed that this conflict would eventually lead to a socialist revolution, where the proletariat would overthrow the bourgeoisie and create a classless society
- Used the analogy of the "little house" and the "palace" to illustrate how even small inequalities can create a sense of social injustice.
- Famous examples of the class conflict in action include the Marikana massacre and the #FeesMustFall protests
Max Weber's Contribution
- Agreed with Marx on the existence of social conflict but expanded the analysis to include other forms of inequality beyond just class
- Identified three main sources of conflict: economic, social, and political
- He argued that social conflict exists in various aspects of society, like politics, gender, religion, and education
- Criticized Marx for focusing solely on economic determinism and ignoring other fundamental aspects of social difference
C. Wright Mills' View
- Further developed conflict theory by focusing on the role of power and social structures
- Argued that the elite control social institutions and maintain their privileged position by disregarding the interests of the non-elite
- Used the term "power elite" to describe those who hold power in society
Conflict Theory and Family
- Recognizes the role of families in perpetuating social inequality and maintaining the status quo
- Argues that families, particularly wealthy families, maintain their privileged positions through inheritance and social advantage
- Acknowledges the inherent conflicts within families due to their power dynamics and heteropatriarchal structure
Key Assumptions of Conflict Theory
- Social interaction leads to conflict
- Conflict and change are inevitable in society
- Competition over scarce resources is a driving force of social conflict
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Description
Explore the foundational concepts of Conflict Theory as developed by Karl Marx and Max Weber. This quiz delves into the dynamics of power struggles, class conflicts, and the social inequalities prevalent in society, highlighting historical examples and theories surrounding these issues.
