Final answer:
A hostile encounter resulting from clashing needs or ideas is a conflict. This term applies to disagreements in ideologies, resource disputes, and differences within groups, which can be political, social, or economic in nature.
Step-by-step explanation:
A hostile encounter that occurs as a result of opposing needs, wishes, or ideas is called conflict. In the context of social studies, conflict can be seen in various forms, such as ideological disagreements between political parties, disputes over resources or policies, and clashes of beliefs and values within a group or society. For example, when there is a disagreement between two political parties with one advocating for the death penalty and the other opposing it, this represents an instance where there is no middle ground, and a conflict emerges due to the irreconcilable differences in their preferences.
Conflicts are a fundamental aspect of human interaction and politics because desires lead to individuals or groups wanting things they cannot have, which often results in scarce resources and differing interests. This scarcity is not limited to material needs like clean air, potable water, or basic necessities, but it also applies to desires for better living standards and access to amenities that may be limited in nature. While conflicts can be challenging, they can also present opportunities for growth and innovation when handled constructively.