Podcast
Questions and Answers
According to conflict theory, why does economic inequality persist in the United States?
According to conflict theory, why does economic inequality persist in the United States?
- Because of a lack of individual effort and ambition among the poor.
- Due to natural differences in skills and abilities among individuals.
- Due to unforeseen economic circumstances that disproportionately affect lower-income groups.
- Because the wealthy and powerful manipulate the system to maintain their advantages. (correct)
Which of the following policies would a conflict theorist likely critique as contributing to economic inequality?
Which of the following policies would a conflict theorist likely critique as contributing to economic inequality?
- Government programs that provide social safety nets for the poor.
- Tax laws that favor corporations and wealthy individuals. (correct)
- Progressive taxation policies that redistribute wealth.
- Strong labor protections that empower workers.
How does the conflict perspective explain the income disparities observed in Minnesota?
How does the conflict perspective explain the income disparities observed in Minnesota?
- Minnesota's strong economy naturally leads to income disparities based on individual merit.
- Systemic biases in Minnesota favor certain groups, concentrating wealth and power. (correct)
- Insufficient educational opportunities in Minnesota limit economic mobility for some residents.
- Minnesota's high cost of living disproportionately affects low-income individuals.
In the context of Crow Wing County, how would conflict theory interpret the income gap between the richest and poorest 20%?
In the context of Crow Wing County, how would conflict theory interpret the income gap between the richest and poorest 20%?
According to the conflict perspective, what is the primary reason for economic challenges faced by residents of Brainerd?
According to the conflict perspective, what is the primary reason for economic challenges faced by residents of Brainerd?
Which statement aligns with the conflict theory's explanation of the relationship between economic inequality and political power?
Which statement aligns with the conflict theory's explanation of the relationship between economic inequality and political power?
From a conflict perspective, how do laws and policies contribute to the perpetuation of economic inequality?
From a conflict perspective, how do laws and policies contribute to the perpetuation of economic inequality?
Which of the following best describes the role of competition in maintaining economic inequality, according to conflict theory?
Which of the following best describes the role of competition in maintaining economic inequality, according to conflict theory?
A conflict theorist would argue that focusing solely on individual responsibility obscures which critical factor in addressing economic inequality?
A conflict theorist would argue that focusing solely on individual responsibility obscures which critical factor in addressing economic inequality?
According to conflict theory, what broader social change is necessary to create a more equitable society?
According to conflict theory, what broader social change is necessary to create a more equitable society?
Flashcards
Conflict Theory
Conflict Theory
A sociological perspective that views society as a competition for limited resources, where powerful groups maintain advantages.
Economic Inequality
Economic Inequality
The gap between the wealth of the richest and poorest members of a society.
U.S. Economic Inequality
U.S. Economic Inequality
In the U.S., the richest control a large portion of the country's wealth which continues to grow due to favorable policies.
Minnesota's Inequality
Minnesota's Inequality
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Crow Wing County's Inequality
Crow Wing County's Inequality
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Brainerd's Inequality
Brainerd's Inequality
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Perpetuation of Inequality
Perpetuation of Inequality
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Addressing Inequality
Addressing Inequality
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Study Notes
- Economic inequality in the U.S. is a significant issue affecting opportunities, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life.
Conflict Perspective
- Helps explain economic inequality.
- The wealthy and powerful work to maintain their advantages at the expense of others.
National Level: The United States
- Income inequality has been growing for decades.
- The richest 1% of Americans own a massive share of the country’s wealth.
- Wages for most workers have barely kept up with inflation.
- Wealthy individuals and large corporations often have more influence over government policies, such as tax laws and labor regulations.
- The economic system benefits the elite by allowing them to control resources, while lower-income groups struggle to improve their situation.
State Level: Minnesota
- Inequality still exists despite Minnesota's strong economy.
- Men in Minnesota earn approximately 27% more than women on average.
- Income gaps exist based on race, education level, and job opportunities.
- The system is built to favor certain groups.
County Level: Crow Wing County
- Median household income rose from about $60,800 to $65,900 between 2021 and 2022.
- Despite progress, wealth is not evenly distributed.
- The richest 20% of people in the county make far more than the poorest 20%.
- Economic systems favor people who already have wealth and influence.
City Level: Brainerd
- Economic opportunities depend on local businesses, government policies, and job availability.
- People with more money and connections often have better access to high-paying jobs and quality education.
- Those in lower-income areas struggle to get ahead.
- Wealthier individuals and business owners influence decisions about wages, taxes, and public resources to protect their financial advantages.
How Conflict Theory Explains Inequality
- Economic inequality is built into the system.
- The rich and powerful create laws and policies that benefit themselves.
- Examples include lower taxes for the wealthy, fewer regulations on big businesses, and weaker labor protections for workers.
- Wealthy control resources while working-class and poor communities face challenges in achieving financial stability.
Conclusion
- Policies and social changes might create a more fair and just society by addressing economic inequality.
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