The Social Conflict Theory and Divorce Essay Example

At the heart of social conflict is the view that conflict among members of society is inherent. Without it, the process of development of society can not be undertaken. It is the driving force for social change. Conflict is determined by social structures, both economic and political (Werner-Wilson). In societies where the economic system is capitalist, conflict is evident between workers and the owners of factories.Social structures predetermine a class that is exploited and a privileged class that exploits, where the latter enjoys political power as a result of their economic power. Hence, conflict is also a manifestation of unequal power relations.

There have been very few attempts at applying the social conflict theory to the family because of a general view that family relations are in fact conciliatory and not conflicting (Werner-Wilson)