A CONFLICT MODEL FOR THE ANALYSIS OF MAJORITY-MINORITY RELATIONS

Eitzen, D. Stanley

Publication

A CONFLICT MODEL FOR THE ANALYSIS OF MAJORITY-MINORITY RELATIONS

Eitzen, D. Stanley

Abstract

The sociological study of majority-minority relations has been handicapped by the lack of models which stress the elements of power and conflict. The model presented in this paper begins with the assumptions that: (1) majority-minority relations are power relations, and (2) conflict and struggle are inherent in all power relations. The relationship between any majority and minority is viewed as a conflicting, changing relationship between two parties--one with the power and the other desiring a fair share of that power and the rewards that come as a result of power holding.