Question

Using the conflict perspective, explain how poverty came to be and how it is perpetuated.

Answer 1

According to Conflict perspective poverty stems from Social stratification and inequality. The social stratification causes a fundamental conflict between the needs and interests of the powerful, or “haves,” in society and those of the weak, or “have-nots”.

The poverty has perpetuated because the powerful take advantage of their position at the top of society to stay at the top, even if it means oppressing those at the bottom. At a minimum, they can heavily influence the law, the media, and other institutions in a way that maintains society’s class structure. Thus poverty has perpetuated due to lack of opportunity from discrimination and prejudice against the poor and inferior class. These obstacles and factors have made it difficult for the poor to move up the socioeconomic ladder and to otherwise enjoy healthy and productive lives.