Difference Between
versus

Conflict Theory vs. Consensus Theory: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Conflict Theory focuses on societal divisions and power struggles, while Consensus Theory emphasizes social order and shared norms.
Conflict Theory vs. Consensus Theory

Key Differences

Conflict Theory views society as composed of groups competing for scarce resources, highlighting power imbalances and social inequalities. In contrast, Consensus Theory sees society as a collective that agrees on norms and values, emphasizing cooperation and social harmony.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
In Conflict Theory, social change is driven by conflicts between different classes, with an emphasis on economic disparities and power struggles. Conversely, Consensus Theory posits that societal stability is maintained through a general agreement on values and norms, viewing social change as a gradual and consensual process.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Proponents of Conflict Theory often focus on how societal structures perpetuate inequality, such as through class, race, and gender. Meanwhile, Consensus Theory emphasizes the role of institutions like education and religion in maintaining social cohesion and shared values.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
From the perspective of Conflict Theory, social order is maintained through domination and power, often benefiting a select group at the expense of others. On the other hand, Consensus Theory suggests that social order is achieved through a collective consensus, where members of society work together to achieve common goals.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Conflict Theory is often aligned with Marxist viewpoints, highlighting the struggles between the bourgeoisie and proletariat. In contrast, Consensus Theory is more aligned with functionalist viewpoints, suggesting that each part of society serves a purpose in maintaining the social system.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Comparison Chart

View of Society

Society as a battleground for resource competition
Society as a collective sharing norms and values
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Key Focus

Power imbalances, inequality
Social harmony, cooperation
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Change Mechanism

Change through conflict and struggle
Gradual change through consensus and adaptation
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Role of Institutions

Instruments of dominance and inequality
Means of promoting social cohesion and stability
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Theoretical Alignment

Often associated with Marxist theory
Often linked with functionalist theory
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Conflict Theory and Consensus Theory Definitions

Conflict Theory

A framework for understanding societal divisions and tensions.
Conflict Theory sheds light on the unequal distribution of wealth and power.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 02, 2023

Consensus Theory

A perspective that views social change as a product of collective agreement.
Consensus Theory is reflected in the gradual evolution of cultural norms.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 02, 2023

Conflict Theory

A perspective that views social change as driven by conflict.
Conflict Theory is evident in the analysis of political revolutions.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 02, 2023

Consensus Theory

A framework for understanding social harmony and cooperation.
Consensus Theory provides insight into the functioning of democratic institutions.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 02, 2023

Conflict Theory

A sociological approach highlighting class struggles and social strife.
Marx's writings form the basis of Conflict Theory in sociology.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 02, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Consensus Theory

A theory focusing on the general agreement among society members.
Consensus Theory is utilized in understanding the role of education in society.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 02, 2023

Conflict Theory

A sociological perspective emphasizing social inequalities and power disparities.
Conflict Theory explains the ongoing class struggles in modern societies.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 02, 2023

Consensus Theory

A sociological perspective emphasizing social order and shared norms.
Consensus Theory explains how societal values contribute to social stability.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 02, 2023

Conflict Theory

A theory focusing on the conflicts between different social groups.
Conflict Theory is used to analyze the dynamics of labor relations.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 02, 2023

Consensus Theory

A sociological approach emphasizing the integration of societal components.
Functionalism, a type of Consensus Theory, examines how social institutions contribute to social order.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 02, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

How does Consensus Theory view social change?

As a gradual process resulting from a collective consensus and adaptation.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What is Conflict Theory?

A sociological perspective focusing on societal divisions and power struggles.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What is Consensus Theory?

A theory emphasizing social order and agreement on shared norms and values.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Is Conflict Theory aligned with any political ideology?

It often aligns with Marxist ideology, emphasizing class struggles.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Can Conflict Theory and Consensus Theory be reconciled?

While differing, both can offer complementary insights into societal dynamics.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What does Conflict Theory say about institutions?

It views them as tools that reinforce power disparities and inequalities.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Which sociological perspective aligns with Consensus Theory?

Functionalism, which views each part of society as serving a collective purpose.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

How does Conflict Theory view social change?

As driven by conflicts and power imbalances between different social groups.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What role do institutions play in Consensus Theory?

They are seen as crucial in maintaining social stability and cohesion.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

How does Conflict Theory explain economic disparities?

By highlighting how capitalist structures perpetuate class divisions.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What is a key criticism of Conflict Theory?

It may overly focus on conflict and neglect cooperative aspects of society.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

How do these theories apply to modern societies?

Both offer frameworks for analyzing contemporary social and political issues.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Can these theories be applied globally?

Yes, but interpretations might vary based on cultural and social contexts.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

How does Conflict Theory view power?

As concentrated in the hands of a few, often leading to social strife.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Does Consensus Theory support the status quo?

Often, as it emphasizes stability and gradual societal change.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

How does Consensus Theory view societal norms?

As agreed-upon standards that guide behavior and ensure harmony.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Does Consensus Theory recognize societal conflicts?

Yes, but it views them as resolvable through shared norms and dialogue.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What is the role of class in Conflict Theory?

Class is a central element, often determining one's societal position and power.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What is a key criticism of Consensus Theory?

It might overlook deep-seated societal inequalities and conflicts.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

How do these theories influence policy-making?

They provide different lenses for understanding and addressing societal issues.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Share this page

Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

Popular Comparisons

Trending Comparisons

Smart TV vs. Android TVSmart TV vs. Android TV
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Smart TV is an internet-connected television with a variety of apps, while an Android TV is specifically a Smart TV powered by Google's Android TV operating system.
Special Education vs. Inclusive EducationSpecial Education vs. Inclusive Education
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 17, 2024
Special Education is tailored instruction for students with disabilities, while Inclusive Education integrates all students, including those with disabilities, into general education settings.
Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 8, 2024
The Seagate Exos X16 offers up to 16TB storage with a focus on high-capacity data centers, while the Exos X18 upgrades to 18TB, enhancing performance and capacity for enterprise demands.
C3 Plants vs. C4 PlantsC3 Plants vs. C4 Plants
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
C3 plants use a direct carbon fixation process, common in cooler climates, while C4 plants have a specialized mechanism, efficient in high light and temperature.
Social Change vs. Cultural ChangeSocial Change vs. Cultural Change
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Social change refers to shifts in societal structures and institutions, impacting behaviors and relationships among people. Cultural change pertains to alterations in a group's shared beliefs, values, and customs, influencing their way of life.
Compression Wood vs. Tension WoodCompression Wood vs. Tension Wood
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Compression Wood is a denser, abnormal growth in softwood trees under mechanical stress, whereas Tension Wood is a less dense, fibrous growth in hardwoods under similar stress.
Term vs. SemesterTerm vs. Semester
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Term is a general period for any division of the academic year, while Semester specifically refers to half of an academic year.
Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 1, 2024
Gorilla Glass 3 offers improved scratch resistance and durability compared to its predecessors, while Gorilla Glass 5 focuses on enhanced drop protection and toughness.
Gavage vs. LavageGavage vs. Lavage
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Gavage is the process of feeding a person or animal by inserting a tube into the stomach, while lavage is the washing out of a body cavity, such as the stomach, typically for medical treatment.
Travel Agent vs. Tour OperatorTravel Agent vs. Tour Operator
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A travel agent is a professional who arranges travel plans for individuals, while a tour operator designs and manages complete travel packages.
Sausage vs. SmokieSausage vs. Smokie
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A sausage is a type of meat product usually made from ground meat, often pork, beef, or poultry, while a smokie is a specific type of smoked sausage.
Hard Copy vs. Soft CopyHard Copy vs. Soft Copy
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Hard Copy is a physical version of a document or file, usually on paper, while a Soft Copy is a digital version of the document, stored electronically.
Nanomaterials vs. NanoparticlesNanomaterials vs. Nanoparticles
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Nanomaterials are diverse materials with components smaller than 100nm, whereas nanoparticles are specific, ultrafine particles within this size range.
Plant Cell vs. Animal CellPlant Cell vs. Animal Cell
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Plant cells have a cell wall and chloroplasts for photosynthesis, while animal cells lack these but have centrioles.
Japanese Eyes vs. Chinese EyesJapanese Eyes vs. Chinese Eyes
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Japanese Eyes and Chinese Eyes refer to linguistic structures in Japanese and Chinese respectively, each reflecting unique aspects of grammar and syntax.
Batch Fermentation vs. Continuous FermentationBatch Fermentation vs. Continuous Fermentation
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 10, 2024
Batch Fermentation is a finite process where nutrients are added at the start and products are harvested at the end, whereas Continuous Fermentation involves a steady input of nutrients and continuous product harvest.
Analog Computer vs. Digital ComputerAnalog Computer vs. Digital Computer
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
An Analog Computer processes continuous data, whereas a Digital Computer processes data in discrete numerical form.
2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
2 Pole Motors have one pair of magnetic poles and run at higher speeds, while 4 Pole Motors have two pairs of poles and operate at lower speeds, offering higher torque.
Absolute Privilege vs. Qualified PrivilegeAbsolute Privilege vs. Qualified Privilege
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 26, 2023
Absolute privilege is a complete defense against defamation claims, often used in legal or parliamentary contexts, while qualified privilege offers conditional protection, requiring the absence of malice.
Goth vs. AltGoth vs. Alt
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 5, 2024
Goth is a dark, often Victorian-influenced subculture and style, while Alt (alternative) is a broader term encompassing non-mainstream styles and attitudes.
Kinesthesiology vs. KinesiologyKinesthesiology vs. Kinesiology
Hifza NasirHifza Nasir
March 13, 2024
Kinesiology studies human movement and its impact on health, while kinesthesiology is not a recognized term; it's often a mispronunciation or misspelling of kinesiology.
Fast Food vs. Traditional FoodFast Food vs. Traditional Food
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Fast Food is quick, convenient, and often pre-prepared, while Traditional Food emphasizes cultural recipes, longer preparation times, and home cooking.
Handsome vs. SmartHandsome vs. Smart
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Handsome describes physical attractiveness, focusing on looks, while smart denotes intelligence or cleverness, related to mental capabilities.
Consecutive vs. SubsequentConsecutive vs. Subsequent
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Consecutive refers to events or things following one after another in uninterrupted sequence, whereas subsequent denotes following in time or order, but not necessarily immediately afterward.

Featured Comparisons

New Comparisons