What is a key focus of conflict perspectives in sociology?

A key focus of conflict perspectives in sociology is the examination of power and resource disparities within society. This theoretical framework posits that society is characterized by ongoing conflicts between different groups, often driven by competition over limited resources such as wealth, power, and status.

Conflict theorists argue that these disparities lead to social inequality, where certain groups benefit at the expense of others. They emphasize that social structures and institutions often maintain these inequalities rather than promote social order or harmony. This perspective highlights how societal issues are often rooted in the interests and struggles of various groups, revealing the dynamics of domination and subordination that define social relationships.

In contrast, other options, such as social harmony and equilibrium, individual social interactions, and norms and values across cultures, do not capture the primary concern of conflict theory. These alternatives either focus on aspects of social cohesion, micro-level interactions, or cultural norms, which do not address the critical lens through which conflict perspectives analyze societal structures.