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What are some examples of Marx's "base" of Conflict Theory?

1) Means of production
2) Social classes
3) Ideology
4) Political power

User Axel Ros
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Final answer:

Marx's 'base' of Conflict Theory includes the means of production and the social classes derived from economic structures. The bourgeoisie owns the means of production, creating conflict with the proletariat, who sell their labor and lack ownership. This class conflict is the basis for societal change and revolution in a capitalist system.

Step-by-step explanation:

Examples of Marx's 'base' of Conflict Theory primarily include the means of production and social classes. The 'base,' according to Karl Marx, is the economic foundation of a society, consisting of the modes of production such as factories and other facilities, and natural resources. This economic base structures the social classes into the bourgeoisie, who own the means of production, and the proletariat, who sell their labor to the bourgeoisie. The conflict between these two classes arises from the proletariat's lack of ownership and resultant exploitation. Ideology and political power, while not part of the 'base' itself, are shaped by these economic conditions and contribute to the overall conflict within a capitalist society as observed by Marx.

Marx's Conflict Theory explains that social structures and historical periods result from the conflicts between opposing classes. For example, the capitalist stage in history is defined by the bourgeoisie's private ownership of the means of production, which inevitably leads to class conflict as the proletariat becomes aware of their exploitation, potentially culminating in social revolutions.

User Edd Grant
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