German philosopher Karl Marx is considered the father of this theory, but others have expanded on it.
He used conflict theory to explain how the working class acts as producers of goods for the upper class.
DuBois also used conflict theory to explain racism in the late 1800s.
Orbon Alija/E+/Getty Images
In the 1950s, sociologist C. Wright Mills examine conflict theory through the lens of large organizations in power.
He suggested that an elite class was formed by the government, military, and corporations.
Conflict theory was presented in modern times by presidential candidate Bernie Sanders.
Sanders represented himself as of the people, versus a member of the upper class who sided with corporations.
Core Concepts of Conflict Theory
Conflict theory centers around a few basic concepts.
Competition
The idea that we all have to compete is central to conflict theory.
In this competition, who performs a function best does not innately lead them to achieve success.
Power
Conflict theory involves a group in power that has the desire to stay there.
Wealth and power are tied together, with wealthy people typically being seen as the people in charge.
This theory works against the idea of upward mobility.
Limited resources are key to conflict theory.
Marginalization
Conflict theory involves some people beingmarginalizeddue to the imbalance in power.
When some people hold more power than others, those without power are bound to become marginalized.
It instead focuses on how we all want to work for thegreater good.
Conflict theory differs from most other sociological theories in being centered around conflict.
This creates inequality and marginalization, and without upward mobility, those problems will continue over time.
There is also a lack of research surrounding conflict theory.
Lastly, conflict theory can be considered an oversimplification of society’s struggles.
Hamon, Raeann R.“Conflict Theory.
“Encyclopedia of Family Studies (2016): 1-5.
Conflict theory- new world encyclopedia.
Bois WEBD.Strivings of the negro people.The Atlantic.
