What does conflict theory suggest about society?

Conflict theory posits that society is inherently characterized by competition and struggle between different groups, particularly in the context of resources, power, and inequality. This perspective emphasizes that various groups—such as social classes, ethnic groups, or other identifiable factions—are often in opposition to one another as they vie for limited resources such as wealth, status, and opportunities.

By focusing on the conflicts between these competing groups, conflict theory reveals how societal structures can perpetuate inequality and maintain the dominance of some groups over others. This approach challenges the notion that society operates harmoniously or that social norms and values are universally accepted by everyone. Instead, it highlights the idea that tensions and conflicts are fundamental aspects of social dynamics, shaping interactions and social relations.

The other options do not accurately reflect the principles of conflict theory. For example, the idea that society operates smoothly without any conflict ignores the fundamental aspects of power struggles inherent in social life. Similarly, suggesting that society is solely determined by social norms and values overlooks the role of material conditions and power dynamics, while focusing on the collective good over individual interests fails to account for the competitive nature of group interactions emphasized in conflict theory. Therefore, the statement encapsulated in the correct answer is a central tenet of conflict theory