Social Conflict Approach Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Social Conflict Approach?

The social conflict approach is an important perspective used by sociologists to examine and analyze the structure of power within a given society. This approach focuses on the way in which different groups in society are benefitting or losing out due to the unequal distribution of resources, privileges and rights. It also examines how these inequalities can lead to social conflict and how this conflict can be managed or resolved. One key concept that is central to the social conflict approach is power. The unequal distribution of economic, political, and symbolic resources creates a situation where certain groups benefit from their privileged positions while other groups are excluded from these benefits. For example, in many societies men have traditionally had more access to economic resources than women due to gender roles that often place women in subordinate roles. This inequality leads to tension between men and women as well as potential sources of conflict between them. Another concept central to the social conflict approach is class consciousness. This refers to an understanding among people that they share similar interests due to their position within a particular socio-economic hierarchy. Class consciousness can lead people of similar backgrounds or interests into collective action against those with greater power and privilege who stand in opposition to their interests. An example of this could be seen during labor strikes when workers band together against employers who refuse them fair wages or working conditions for fear of losing profits or market share on their products/services. Finally, the social conflict approach emphasizes the importance of structural change as a necessary part of resolving conflicts between different groups in society. Structural change involves altering existing institutions, policies, laws and practices so that they better reflect the needs and concerns of all members within a given society rather than just benefiting those with greater power and privilege at the expense of others without it. Examples here could include affirmative action policies designed specifically for minority groups who have been historically marginalized along racial lines or reforming labor laws so that they protect workers’ rights regardless of income level or race/ethnicity/gender etc. In conclusion, the social conflict approach provides an important lens through which we can analyze complex interactions between different individuals and groups in our societies today as well as strive for meaningful changes that promote equality for all members regardless of race/ethnicity/gender etc.