Home > Sociology MCQ Questions and Answers > Who among the following theorists made a distinction between 'realistic' and 'non-realistic' forms of conflict?
Who among the following theorists made a distinction between 'realistic' and 'non-realistic' forms of conflict?
A
Karl Marx
B
Lewis A. Coser
C
George Simmel
D
R. Dahrendorf
Correct Answer:
B
Lewis A. Coser
- The concept of realistic and non-realistic conflicts was first identified by Lewis A. Coser in his conflict theory.
- Realistic conflicts are motivated by concrete objectives, such as seeking power, resources, or status.
- They have an objective and can be settled via negotiations or compromises.
- Examples include workers going on strike for higher wages or better working conditions.
- Non-realistic conflicts are based on emotional motives like rage, frustration, or animosity.
- They do not have an objective but serve as mechanisms for stress relief.
- Examples include scapegoating or mob violence that does not have any objectives.
- Coser drew from the theories of Georg Simmel but provided clearer definitions of conflict types.
- Conflict can either have positive or negative outcomes according to his theory.
- Significant for exams since it explains the basis of various social conflicts.