Final answer:
Thatcherism is criticized for increasing class conflict due to its focus on free-market principles and privatization. The dismantling of industries and concentration of wealth widened the gap between the rich and the poor, sparking protests and social unrest.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thatcherism, the political ideology associated with former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, is often criticized for increasing class conflict. Critics argue that Thatcherism prioritized free-market principles and privatization, leading to the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few while exacerbating income inequality. Privatization of key industries and the reduction of trade unions' power are seen as contributing factors to increased class conflict.
For example, the dismantling of the coal mining industry in the UK during Thatcher's tenure resulted in mass layoffs and economic hardship for the mining communities, which led to protests and strikes. The concentration of wealth in the hands of the wealthy elite also widened the gap between the rich and the poor, sparking social unrest and further class divisions.
Overall, critics argue that Thatcherism's policies prioritized the interests of the business and upper classes, leading to increased class conflict as working-class communities were disproportionally affected by economic changes and social inequality intensified.