Conflict Theory and Social Inequality: Explaining Power Dynamics

Core Principles of Conflict Theory

Conflict theory posits that society is characterized by persistent social conflict arising from inequality and competition over limited resources (Prayogi, 2023). Unlike functionalism, which emphasizes social harmony, conflict theory highlights power struggles and dominance (Prayogi, 2023).

Key tenets include:

• Competition: Individuals and groups compete for scarce resources like food, pleasure, and sexual partners (Prayogi, 2023).
• Structural Inequality: Power and resources are unequally distributed within the social structure (Prayogi, 2023).
• Revolution: Groups strive to gain profits and may engage in revolution to achieve their goals (Prayogi, 2023).
• Social Change: Conflict drives social change, often rapidly and revolutionarily, rather than through gradual adaptation (Prayogi, 2023).

Social Inequality and Power Dynamics

Social inequality, according to conflict theory, is the root of power dynamics. Those with more resources and power (the dominant group) create and maintain systems that benefit them, often at the expense of marginalized groups (the subordinate group) (Prayogi, 2023).

• Dominant vs. Subordinate Groups: The dominant group controls resources and enforces rules, while the subordinate group experiences marginalization and limited access (Prayogi, 2023).
• Resource Control: Unequal access to resources (e.g., wealth, status, power) leads to conflict (Prayogi, 2023).
• Regulation Creation: Elite groups use their power to create regulations and laws that serve their interests (Prayogi, 2023).

Mechanisms of Power Maintenance

Dominant groups maintain their power through various mechanisms:

• Ideology: Promoting beliefs and values that justify the existing social order (Prayogi, 2023).
• Coercion: Using force or the threat of force to suppress dissent and maintain control.
• Manipulation: Controlling information and shaping public opinion to maintain dominance (Prayogi, 2023).
• Institutional Control: Influencing institutions like education, media, and government to reinforce their power (Cox & Masuku, 2024).

Conflict and Social Change

Conflict is a catalyst for social change. Subordinate groups may challenge the dominant group's power, leading to social movements and revolutions (Prayogi, 2023).

• Resistance: Subordinate groups resist domination through collective action and ideological unity (Prayogi, 2023).
• Polarization: Conflict can lead to polarization between dominant and subordinate groups (Prayogi, 2023).
• Revolution: Extreme conflict can result in revolutionary social change (Prayogi, 2023).

Examples of Conflict Theory in Action

• Class Conflict (Marx): Conflict between the bourgeoisie (owners of capital) and the proletariat (workers) due to unequal access to resources (Prayogi, 2023).
• Gender Inequality: Conflict between men and women due to patriarchal power structures and unequal opportunities (William, 2024).
• Racial and Ethnic Conflict: Conflict between different racial and ethnic groups due to discrimination and unequal access to resources (William, 2024).
• Environmental Conflict: Conflict arising from ecological degradation and unequal distribution of environmental burdens (Ishardanti, 2023).

Theoretical Frameworks Supporting Conflict Theory

• Social Exchange Theory: Individuals engage in social interactions based on expected rewards and punishments. Perceptions of fairness in power dynamics influence satisfaction and conflict outcomes (William, 2024).
• Equity Theory: Individuals compare their inputs and outcomes to others, and perceived inequity can lead to conflict (William, 2024).

Factors Influencing Power Dynamics

• Gender, Ethnicity, and Organizational Culture: These factors can influence power dynamics and perpetuate inequalities (William, 2024).
• Organizational Justice: Equitable power distribution and transparent decision-making processes tend to lower conflict levels and increase employee satisfaction (William, 2024).

Criticisms of Conflict Theory

• Overemphasis on Conflict: Critics argue that conflict theory overemphasizes conflict and neglects social stability and cooperation.
• Deterministic View: Some argue that conflict theory presents a deterministic view of social change, neglecting individual agency and other factors.
• Lack of Empirical Support: Some aspects of conflict theory are difficult to test empirically.

Key Figures in Conflict Theory

• Karl Marx: Focused on class conflict and the exploitation of the proletariat by the bourgeoisie (Prayogi, 2023).
• Max Weber: Emphasized the role of ideology and political authority in conflict (Prayogi, 2023).
• George Simmel: Explored the social functions of conflict and its role in shaping social relationships (Prayogi, 2023).