Realistic conflict theory

Realistic Conflict Theory (RCT), proposed by Donald Campbell and later developed by researchers such as Muzafer Sherif, postulates that intergroup conflict arises primarily from direct competition over limited and valued resources, whether these be material (such as territory, wealth, jobs) or symbolic (such as power or status).

Central Premise: Competition over Scarce Resources

The central idea of RCT is that when two or more groups perceive that their goals are incompatible and that the resources they desire are scarce (i.e., there are not enough to go around), competition ensues that can lead to intergroup hostility, prejudice, and discrimination.

In these "zero-sum" situations, where a gain for one group implies a loss for the other, negative attitudes toward the outgroup and increased ingroup solidarity and favoritism are more likely to emerge.

Experimental Evidence: The Study of The Den of Thieves

Sherif's "Den of Thieves" experiment provides a clear empirical demonstration of Realistic Conflict Theory.

The introduction of direct competition for prizes and recognition between the "Eagles" and the "Rattlers" was what triggered hostility and negative stereotypes between the two groups of children, who previously held no animosity toward each other.

The scarcity of resources (only one group could win the prizes) and the incompatibility of goals (success for one group meant failure for the other) created the breeding ground for conflict.

Applications to Real-World Social Conflicts

Realistic Conflict Theory has been used to explain a wide range of real-world intergroup conflicts, such as tensions between ethnic or national groups competing for territory or economic resources, labor disputes between unions and employers, or rivalry between sports teams or political factions.

When resources are perceived as limited, either objectively or subjectively, groups are more likely to develop negative attitudes toward those with whom they compete and to justify discrimination or