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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
A four page paper which explains the basic principles of conflict theory as a rationale for social change, and applies this theory to the ideas put forward in Schlosser's expose of the meat processing industry in Fast Food Nation.
Page Count:
4 pages (~225 words per page)
File: JL5_JLffn.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
Conflict theory states that the basis of social change lies in conflict rather than consensus, and that an essential element in this process is competition. Each group within society
as a whole is constantly striving to maximise benefits, and it is the conflict between these groups which gives rise to changes in political theory, whether these take place gradually
or through more radical methods such as revolution. Conflict theory is in direct opposition to functionalism, which sees all groups as equally essential to society, in the same way that
all the different organs of the body are essential to the smooth running of the body as a whole. Conflict theory asserts that since resources are not equally distributed, individuals
and groups are constantly competing for them: this applies to money, jobs, sexual partners: all aspects of social culture, in other words.
Human social relationships are therefore defined through conflict rather than being characterised by
consensus, and the acceptance of inequalities, which would be the case with functionalism. Since there are inherent inequalities in all societal structures, then those who derive the maximum benefit will
strive to maintain the status quo and those who derive less benefit will attempt to overturn or change it. Although evolutionary change is possible as a result of conflict, revolution
is more likely. Schlossers
Fast Food Nation (2001) focuses strongly on the idea of inequality within the power structure of the American food industry, and certainly one could assert that one of his major
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