Major Criticism of Conflict Theory: An Overview
Explore the key criticisms of conflict theory in sociology, focusing on its shortcomings regarding social stability and cooperation.
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A major criticism of conflict theory is that it tends to focus excessively on societal tensions and inequalities, overlooking aspects of stability and consensus. Critics argue that this perspective can lead to a one-sided view of social interactions, ignoring the ways in which individuals and groups collaborate and cooperate to achieve mutual goals.
FAQs & Answers
- What are the main features of conflict theory? Conflict theory focuses on the struggles between different social classes, emphasizing power dynamics and inequalities within society.
- How does conflict theory differ from functionalism? While conflict theory highlights tensions and disparities, functionalism views society as a complex system where each part contributes to stability.
- What are some examples of conflict theory in practice? Examples include labor disputes, social movements advocating for equality, and the analysis of wealth distribution in capitalist societies.
- Can conflict theory be applied to modern society? Yes, conflict theory is often used to analyze contemporary issues like income inequality, racial tensions, and political power struggles.