Abstract This paper presents an explanation of the conflicttheory of social problems and social interaction, with examples of how conflicttheory often marginalizes minority groups in U.S. society.
From the Paper "The conflict theory of social problems and social interaction presupposed the existence in any and all societies of dominant groups and institutions which employ coercive power to impose their values upon others. In light of such dominant-minority group relations, stability in society is brought about because of the needs of the dominant groups to maintain social arrangements that are in their best interest. In conflict theory, both conflict and change are defined as essential features of social life. Conflict theorists often expand on Marx's insights about struggle..."
Tags: social values, conflict, resource distribution, Marx, gay marriage, single-parent households, class stratification, minorities, elites
Abstract Conflicttheory in criminal justice is based on the assumption that society is grounded in inherent conflict that cannot be resolved. This paper discusses how conflict theorists argue that those who hold power and wealth in a capitalist economy force the less-powerful to abide by their established rules with the purpose of protecting their own property and physical safety. It explains that the theory relies on a Marxist interpretation of the function of a capitalist society. It also shows how the theory argues for a broader definition of crime to include offenses and actions intended to maintain the ruling structure. This paper addresses how the theory and models of punishment based on the theory require an understanding of criminal justice that takes into consideration the social and political causes of crime, particularly models of treatment based on a concept of restorative justice.
Table of Contents
History and Definition of ConflictTheory Human Nature
Social Order
Causal Logic of ConflictTheory ConflictTheory and Criminal Justice Policy
ConflictTheory and Criminal Justice Practice
Evaluation
Bibliography
From the Paper "Before the 1960s, most criminology research and theory was conducted under the rubric of structural-functionalism, which assumed the primacy of the social system and the inter-relationship of social institutions without much focus or consideration for the individuals or groups who made up the institutions. However, critics of these theories argued that by minimizing the social conflict and tension inherent within society, these theories supported a politically conservative agenda within sociology and criminology."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses the social learning theory at the outset, and analyzes the statement of whether social learning does have an impact on criminal activities and on deviant behaviors. Next, the writer analyzes the culture conflicttheory, with suitable examples, to find the inter-relationship that may exist between culture conflicts and criminal behaviors. The paper then discusses conflict in detail and looks at what role culture and conflict play in determining and leading to criminal behaviors and activities. The writer concludes that social learning theory and culture conflicttheory both have an impact on criminal activity, criminal behaviors, and on the manner in which society responds to criminal behavior as far as prevention and punishment are concerned.
From the Paper "In order to compare and contrast the social learning theory, culture conflict theory and criminal activity, one must, at the outset delve into what exactly social learning theory is comprised of, and what its important tenets are. First, social learning theory proposes that an individual would be able to learn by observing others around him; that is, observance of people's behaviors, and also the observance of the outcomes of those behaviors. Learning can occur, states the theory, without a change in behavior. It must be remembered that behaviorists often state that learning will be represented by a change in behaviors, but according to social learning theorists, it is possible for people to learn completely through observation alone, and that this learning need not necessarily show through in their performances, in any capacity. What this in essence means is that learning need not lead to changes in behavior. Third, social learning theorists feel that cognition plays a very important in learning."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses that terrorism is a methodology that belongs to military science in a collection of techniques, but terrorism is included under the category of criminology in library cataloguing systems. The writer notes that terrorism can be well understood through the approaches of criminology, however, conflicttheory seems best equipped to explain terrorist organizations and acts, depending upon circumstances, for reasons that are explained in the paper's later sections. The writer concludes that like well planned crimes, incidents of terrorism often do work, as a set of considerations to be kept in mind before denouncing crime or terrorism, or acts of terrorism as mere random crimes which they are not.
Outline:
Introduction
Classical Theory and Terrorism
The Consensus School and Terrorism
ConflictTheory and Terrorism
ConflictTheory, Sri Lanka and Tamil Terrorism
Concluding Remarks
From the Paper " If one traces the rise of modernity from the Industrial Revolution, capitalist development and the ideas of the Enlightenment, one appreciates classical models of criminology to assert that deviance was a natural result. Since human beings are rational creatures, they should have and will demand rights and freedoms, eventually. The deviant person asserts his or her rational self-interest due to a particular form of 'free thought' and agency that we discuss as deviant and thus, criminal, because it departs from a society's legal framework and moral standards. This classical approach has replaced earlier ideas of the criminal as a person acting under supernatural influence, as in medieval ideas of the criminal as a person possessed by the devil. Instead, crime came to be seen as a rationally calculated action with the result that reducing crime meant deterrence, in approaches based on how the deviant could be dissuaded from committing a crime, its penalty helping a criminal to see that a planned crime was not rational or appealing because of its risks. Further thought moved from a concept of the punishment fitting the crime, proportional to the harm done to society, or a specific victim."
A defines and examination of conflicttheory and view that crime is the inevitable result of social conflict. Includes human nature, social order, logic of theory, legal policy and practice.
2,925 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 9 sources, 2000, $ 103.95
Abstract Conflicttheory in criminal justice is based on the assumption that society is grounded in inherent conflict that cannot be resolved. Conflict theorists argue that those who hold power and wealth in a capitalist economy force the less-powerful to abide by their established rules with the purpose of protecting their own property and physical safety.
From the Paper "Conflict Theory in Criminal Justice
Abstract
Conflict theory in criminal justice is based on the assumption that society is grounded in inherent conflict that cannot be resolved. Conflict theorists argue that those who hold power and wealth in a capitalist economy force the less-powerful to abide by their established rules with the purpose of protecting their own property and physical safety. The theory relies on a Marxist interpretation of the function of a capitalist society. It argues for a broader definition of crime to include offenses and actions intended to maintain the ruling structure. The theory and models of punishment based on the theory would require an understanding of criminal justice that took into consideration the social and..."
Abstract This essay is a basic introduction to the fundamental components of a sociological theory. Included is a comprehensive analysis of both conflicttheory and symbolic interactionism. Gang behavior is used to illustrate key terms and concepts from each theory, as well as their strengths and weaknesses.
From the Paper "Theories serve several functions in the development and evaluation of scientific knowledge. Theories provide us with systematic procedures to evaluate social phenomenon. These procedures are well organized and comprehensive. Theories are not just knowledge structures; they are sets of interrelated statements that apply to a wide range of phenomenon. Chafetz said, "in theory construction, the exercise is only more systematic, comprehensive, more guided and constrained by rules, and finally is more self-conscience" (Chafetz, p. 2). "
Abstract Applies the principles of conflicttheory to the interactions between a street gang and the Tenants' Council of a housing project. Ideology of the gang, and its control of economic and cultural resources. How this related to the circumstances of their community. Attitudes of housing project residents toward the gang and its violence. Inter-gang conflict.
From the Paper "This essay applies the principles of conflict theory to the interactions between a street gang denominated the "Saints" and the tenants' Council of a housing project, designated Blackstone, that is located in a large midwestern city and was studied by Venkatesh. The conflict between these groups developed over a number of years and when it reached a climax with a sharp increase in violence and danger to residents, especially small children, the two groups developed an accord as the Saints took the unprecedented step of entering into community affairs in order to ensure that the conflict did not force a slowdown in their business operations. This change took place only after the 'corporatization' of the Saints and it took place because residents were sure that the state was no longer involved in ensuring their safety."
Abstract The paper explains the principles of the social conflicttheory and contends that present U.S. policy in the United States and throughout the Middle East is serving to further drive the desires of terrorist groups to use acts of violence. The paper discusses how those involved in committing acts of terrorism do not seek to enter into any talks or discussions but seek to be heard, acknowledged and to exact their revenge on those who they perceive are to blame. The paper argues that in order to end terrorism, the American government must address the grievance issues in those societies that are experiencing terrorist acts.
Outline:
Statement of Thesis
Introduction
Since 9/11
Conflict Resolution Not Possible With al-Qaeda
American Policy and Strategy for Intervention
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper "The United States has undergone many legal transformations since the occurrence of September 11, 2001, such as no-fly lists, and a general trampling of basic Constitutional rights of U.S. citizens. This compliance or passivity relating to many injustices of the U.S. government is much of what has driven terrorism in the United States in that the masses of U.S. citizens have ignored many acts of the U.S. government and military operations in the Middle East. Therefore, according to the social conflict theory the terrorist attacks in the United States were a way of reflecting negative attention on the U.S. Government for its actions in the Middle East by the terrorists committing the attacks."
Abstract This paper discusses three sociological theories beginning with structural functionalism. The paper explains that structural functionalism posits an interpretation of society that emphasizes harmony and supportive interaction between the various societal structures. The paper notes the criticisms of this approach and then turns to the conflicttheory, which is the analysis of the way power and authority are maintained and instituted in society. Next, the paper looks at the many permutations of conflicttheory. Following the discussion on conflicttheory, the paper then examines the interactionist approach that emphasizes social interaction as a fundamental and essential component of any social system. Finally, the paper examines how these theories can be used in the analysis of religion from a sociological perspective.
Outline:
Structural Functionalism
ConflictTheory Interactionism
Analysis: Sociological Theories and Religion
From the Paper "Structural functionalism is a theory or sociological perspective that sees society as essentially functionally integrated. As will be discussed in this paper, conflict theory contrasts with structural functionalism in that it views society as an amalgam of conflicting interests. Structural functionalism therefore posits a model or interpretation of society that emphasizes harmony and supportive interaction between the various societal structures. To expand on this distinction, structural functionalism is seen as a "... theoretical approach to focusing on the structures of society and their functional significance for other structures..." (Compare and contrast structural functionalism and conflict theory)."
A discussion on how sex and gender constitute the basis for a division of labor and as such determine conflicts in a marriage as a conflict in divisions of labor based on social roles.
1,650 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 3 sources, 2002, $ 62.95
Abstract This paper analyses marriage from a perspective of conflicttheory. Based on theories of Marx, and economic structures in societies, conflicttheory assumes that all social relations are based in kinds of conflicts and that social order is determined through coercion. Power is the dominant feature of conflict.
Abstract This paper examines how in his book "Conflict Resolution", James Schellenberg discusses many theories, including one that deals with social structure and social conflict. It also discusses how although this theory is not new to Schellenberg, the basic principles of the social conflicttheory, established by Karl Marx, still hold true today.
From the Paper "Another study, one conducted by Weis (1998) on a very different subject, discusses sex and gender and how those that belong to one group often view those in another group as alien to some degree. For example, heterosexual men often do not identify well with homosexual men. Although they are both men, their lifestyle preferences when it comes to this aspect are likely too strong to bridge the gap in most instances. Studies like this are significant because they show how divided most of the world still is on various points of view about so many aspects of life and the different things that happen in it. Without this type of information, there would be less understanding of what was truly needed to make individuals more cohesive and to show them how better to identify with one another. "
Abstract The paper discusses three educational theories; the functionalist theory, the conflicttheory and the interactionist theory, and examines the perspectives offered by each, as well as the theories' expectations for individuals. The writer selects realism as the theory he most agrees with and explains how the realist theory is quite similar to the functionalist theory. The paper then shows how the functionalist and the conflict educational theories are based on the same concepts, but they promote them in different manners.
From the Paper "Historically, three educational theories have been identified at the basis of the social community as well as at the basis of the educational system: the functionalist theory, the conflict theory and the interactionist theory. The first of the theories relates to basic and common knowledge, which is not necessarily taught in schools. It is more of the school of life, which teaches the norms of behavior and morals. The functionalist theories stand at the basis on human interactions, survival and social development. Among the primary ideas promoted by the advocates of this theory are individualism, liberty of rights, self and social esteem. The conflict theory promotes similar concepts as the previous one, but from a different perspective."
Abstract This paper looks at classical theorists such as Karl Marx and Max Weber, as well as modern theorists such as Ralph Dahrendorf, Lewis Coser, Randall Collins and Immanuel Wallerstein. The different views they have of conflicttheory are then be applied to the war in Iraq. Once an understanding of conflicttheory is established based on how these particular theorists choose to view it, a comparison and contrast of the beliefs that they hold is discussed as well.
From the Paper "Classical theorists include Karl Marx and Max Weber. Karl Marx is basically the father of conflict theory, and many of the conflict and other social theories around today came from his beliefs and opinions. Marx believed in a materialist view of history, and saw the most important part of a social life as being the work that individuals were doing. This was especially true of work that resulted in the basic necessities such as shelter, clothing, and food. The value of society therefore resulted from human labor, and everything that men and women were doing to create society and shape it actually created the conditions for their very own existence (McClelland, 2000)."
Abstract The paper relates that instead of attributing deviant behavior to psychological or biological impulses, Robert Merton explains deviance in sociological terms. The paper explains that when the overarching values of a society, such as wealth, are emphasized more than normative patterns of behavior, deviance becomes a natural and common way to achieve goals that might otherwise be out of reach. The paper discusses how Merton's theory is concurrent with conflicttheory. The paper notes the criticism of this theory but asserts that Merton's contributions to sociological theory are invaluable.
From the Paper "Merton's argument depends on the existence of universally agreed-upon, socially sanctioned goals that are reinforced through social and cultural institutions. For example, the media promotes and reinforces the goals of financial success, slimness, and fame. These goals may be reinforced by family members and peers. Merton also claims that deviance arises when the society fails to provide significant impetus to follow the normative, acceptable means of attaining those goals. Anomie creates and even ironically normalizes deviance."
Abstract Homer-Dixon's Toronto project, on the links between environmental scarcity and violent conflicts, has produced influential recommendations for the U.S. and developing policy makers. However, this paper argues that his recommendations have Western biases. This essay points out those dubious aspects that may deter a more balanced analysis of the problem. The author gives some recommendations in order to achieve more effective measures in reducing the impact of environmental factors on violent conflicts.
From the Paper "During the 1960s and 1970s, several events have brought the environment into public attention. One that is cited as the public eye-opener is Rachel Carson's book entitled Silent Spring, published in 1962, in which she clearly listed and elaborated on many signs of environmental degradation which until then had not been noticed by others. Exactly ten years later, the United Nations held the first international forum related with the environment, the United Nations Conference on Human Environment, which is referred to as ?the event where international debate on the environment began.?
