Scribd
Upload
15 views2 pages

THEORIES OF CON-WPS Office

Structural violence theory explores how social structures can indirectly harm people. It was introduced by Johan Galtung in the 1960s and argues that violence is not just physical but can occur through inequalities in systems. Structural violence arises from unequal distribution of power and resources and disadvantages certain groups. It is perpetuated through economic, political, and social systems. This can be seen through exploitative labor practices, lack of equal political representation, and unequal access to education and healthcare. The effects of structural violence include poverty, lack of opportunities, and ongoing harm to marginalized communities. Understanding this theory highlights the need to address underlying social issues and work towards a more just society.

Uploaded by

parksonmaina57
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
15 views2 pages

THEORIES OF CON-WPS Office

Structural violence theory explores how social structures can indirectly harm people. It was introduced by Johan Galtung in the 1960s and argues that violence is not just physical but can occur through inequalities in systems. Structural violence arises from unequal distribution of power and resources and disadvantages certain groups. It is perpetuated through economic, political, and social systems. This can be seen through exploitative labor practices, lack of equal political representation, and unequal access to education and healthcare. The effects of structural violence include poverty, lack of opportunities, and ongoing harm to marginalized communities. Understanding this theory highlights the need to address underlying social issues and work towards a more just society.

Uploaded by

parksonmaina57
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

THEORIES OF CONFLICT

Structural violence theory

is a sociological concept that explores how social structures, institutions, and systems contribute to
harm and suffering within society. It emphasizes the indirect and systemic forms of violence that
occur as a result of social, economic, and political arrangements.

The concept of structural violence was originally introduced by Johan Galtung, a Norwegian
sociologist and peace researcher, in the 1960s. Galtung argued that violence is not solely limited to
physical aggression but can also manifest in more subtle, long-term ways through inequalities and
injustices embedded within social structures.

According to the theory, structural violence arises from unequal distribution of power, resources, and
opportunities within society. It is perpetuated through social, economic, and political systems that
disproportionately disadvantage certain groups based on factors such as race, class, gender, and
ethnicity. These systems often go unquestioned and are seen as natural or normal, reinforcing the
status quo and exacerbating the conditions of marginalized populations.

Examples of structural violence can be seen in various aspects of society. Economic systems that
prioritize profit over the well-being of workers can lead to exploitative labor practices, low wages, and
limited access to resources for vulnerable populations. Political systems that fail to provide equal
representation and protection for marginalized communities contribute to systemic discrimination
and the denial of basic rights. Social institutions, such as education and healthcare systems, that
perpetuate inequalities in access and outcomes further perpetuate structural violence.

The effects of structural violence are far-reaching and can result in various forms of harm, including
poverty, homelessness, inadequate healthcare, food insecurity, educational disparities, and
discrimination. Individuals and communities who are oppressed or marginalized may face ongoing
social, economic, and physical consequences that further diminish their opportunities and well-being.

Understanding structural violence theory can help highlight the systemic nature of societal problems
and challenge the notion that individual choices alone are responsible for social inequalities. By
examining and addressing the underlying social structures that perpetuate violence and injustice, it
becomes possible to advocate for transformative changes and work towards a more equitable and
inclusive society.

2. Conflict theory

is a sociological perspective that focuses on the role of conflict and power dynamics in society. It
suggests that society is characterized by inherent inequalities and struggles for resources, with
different groups competing for power and control. Conflict theorists argue that social order is
maintained through coercion rather than consensus.
Central to conflict theory is the idea that social structures, such as the economy, government, and
education system, are designed to benefit certain groups while disadvantaging others. These
structures create social divisions based on factors like class, race, gender, and ethnicity, leading to
disparities in wealth, opportunities, and privileges.

Conflict theorists emphasize the importance of understanding the interests and struggles between
different social groups. They argue that conflicts arise due to the unequal distribution of resources,
and that those in power aim to protect their own interests and maintain their privileged position. This
perspective highlights the role of social change and revolution as ways to address injustice and bring
about a more equitable society.

Conflict theory has its roots in the works of various sociologists, such as Karl Marx, Max Weber, and
Ralf Dahrendorf. Marx, in particular, viewed conflict in terms of the struggle between the bourgeoisie
(the owners of the means of production) and the proletariat (the working class).

Critics of conflict theory argue that it oversimplifies social dynamics by focusing primarily on power
struggles and neglecting other factors that contribute to social order and cohesion. Additionally,
conflict theorists are sometimes criticized for downplaying the role of cooperation and consensus in
society.

Despite these criticisms, conflict theory remains an influential perspective that helps interpret and
understand issues related to social inequalities, power dynamics, and social change.

3. Biological theory

You might also like