Conflict theory, as articulated by Karl Marx, is a sociological theory that analyzes the disparities and conflicts within social institutions created by those in power to safeguard their interests (Levinson, Cookson, Sadovni, 2014). Social institutions include a vast scope of social identities, such as class, race, and religion (Oberschall, 1978). The conflict between social institutions may present itself through protests, civil disorders, and revolutions (Oberschall, 1978). 

Marx highlights that social conflict is best understood through the disputes of the working class and the bourgeoisie class (Levinson, Cookson, Sadovni, 2014). Moreover, Marx explains that the capitalist class utilizes coercive forces through the power of the state to protect their interests (Collins, 1974). Coercion presents itself in the government using government agencies to forcefully influence the working class to accept the capitalist class's interests (Nickerson, 2023). In essence, the ruling class weaponized social institutions to reproduce inequalities (Levinson, Cookson, Sadovni, 2014).