The Functions of Social Conflict.

by Lewis A. Coser

Lewis Coser presents an examination of the concept of social conflict and its use in empirical sociological research in this “lucid, comprehensive essay in social theory” (American Journal of Sociology).

The positive values of conflict for all societies come to light in this study that reveals how conflicts fulfill social functions such as the maintenance of group boundaries and the prevention of the withdrawal of members of a group. Lewis Coser is critical of the view that conflict is dysfunctional and works to demonstrate its inadequacies.

In a series of basic propositions distilled primarily from the theories of Georg Simmel, Coser clarifies the function of social conflict. Beyond this, Functions of Social Conflicts extends these propositions and relates them to psychoanalysis and empirical research theories.

Genres: Sociology, Nonfiction, Social Science

Hardcover

First published June 1, 1956

Reviews

[Douglas · Rating 2 out of 5]

The author, Lewis Coser, attempts to offer an appraisal and an update on the theories of social conflict articulated by Georg Simmel, the nineteenth century German sociologist and philosopher. This book was first published in 1956, so it's helpful to keep in mind the tenor of the times in which it was written. It does pay relatively little attention to actual social conflicts between groups, but from a theoretical perspective, it sheds light on the dynamics that engender social conflict.

[Steve Heitkamp · Rating 3 out of 5]

Originally published in 1956 this classic and relatively short book is a great overview of the dynamics of conflict and identity.

[Priya Dutta]

i rearing now

[Aureo Toledo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A tese central do livro sobre as funções sociais do conflito é muito interessante e se presta para importantes discussões em diversas disciplinas. Ainda que não propriamente teorizada, vale a pena ser difundida e ampliada.

[Iddy Brown]

Not awful but PhD school still sucks

[Dafne★ · Rating 3 out of 5]

interessante

[Rui Da silva pinto · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book, it has helped me immensely in facilitating discussions with different natural resource users in the National Park. Specially when we had to discuss some pretty difficult things with subsistence farmers and fishermen. It is well written, very old, but still relevant.

[Jim Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A text we used the the first class I had in conflict resolution. Still may good ideas.

[Bill Glover · Rating 5 out of 5]

provides an important lens for understanding group dynamics. re-reading now.