What is the focus of conflict theory in sociology?

What is the focus of conflict theory in sociology?

• A. Unity and consensus within a society
• B. The evolution of cultures over time
• C. Struggles for power and resources among social groups
• D. The importance of individual agency

Answer: (C)

Conflict theory in sociology primarily emphasizes the dynamics of power and resource distribution among different social groups. It posits that society is composed of various interest groups that compete for limited resources, such as wealth, power, and status. This competition often leads to conflicts and struggles, which are seen as fundamental to understanding social structures and societal change. By focusing on the struggles for power and resources, conflict theory challenges the notion of social harmony or consensus posited by other theories, illustrating instead how inequalities shape social relations and influence societal outcomes. This perspective is crucial for analyzing social issues like class disparity, race relations, and gender inequality, as it draws attention to the underlying conflicts and struggles that often drive social change and shape societal norms and institutions. In contrast, other theories like those centered around unity and consensus, cultural evolution, or individual agency do not adequately capture the central role of conflict as a driving force in social dynamics and relationships.

Conflict theory in sociology primarily emphasizes the dynamics of power and resource distribution among different social groups. It posits that society is composed of various interest groups that compete for limited resources, such as wealth, power, and status. This competition often leads to conflicts and struggles, which are seen as fundamental to understanding social structures and societal change.

By focusing on the struggles for power and resources, conflict theory challenges the notion of social harmony or consensus posited by other theories, illustrating instead how inequalities shape social relations and influence societal outcomes. This perspective is crucial for analyzing social issues like class disparity, race relations, and gender inequality, as it draws attention to the underlying conflicts and struggles that often drive social change and shape societal norms and institutions.

In contrast, other theories like those centered around unity and consensus, cultural evolution, or individual agency do not adequately capture the central role of conflict as a driving force in social dynamics and relationships.