The conflict theory was developed by Karl Marx, and its assumptions are applicable in many ways in modern life. Conflict theory illustrates disputes in society due to competition for limited resources and possession of power by some members (Flohr 3). Differences in the economic statuses of individuals lead to the oppression of the poor. Individuals in the high ranks tend to misuse their power since they do not fear the consequences. This paper examines how the concept of ‘risk’ plays directly into conflict theory.
The concept of ‘risk’ in the video is used to demonstrate the negative impacts associated with the kidnapping of women and the torture associated with it. Through this, conflicts arise in society, which puts the lives of individuals in danger. As a result, most individuals live in fear of their lives and family members. In the documentary, Amanda Berry 2’s mother is disturbed by the disappearance of her beloved daughter. This makes her cry and recall the memories she shared with her (Dryden-Smith et al.) She believes that one day Amanda will come back home and restore the joy they had as a family. This risky act leads to hatred towards the main suspect in the kidnap of Amanda and the other two girls.
Ariel Castro misused his power by kidnapping Michelle Knight, Amanda Berry, and Georgina “Gina” DeJesus and locking them in his homestead located at 2207 Seymour Avenue in the neighborhood of the city of Tremont. This led to the oppression of the three girls since they experienced traumatizing events. Ariel Castro was found guilty of three incidences of rape and kidnapping (Dryden-Smith et al.). Castro came from a well-known family that had love and joy. Most of his friends described him as a social being who could not be suspected of engaging in risky behaviors.
The consequences of ‘risk’ can be associated with domestic violence in society. Castro was engaged to his wife Grimilda Figueroa. They started a family, but it faced many challenges. Ariel Castro was a beat figure and the neighbors’ reported conflicts between them. In some occasions, Castro broke his wife’s nose, arms and a blood clot on the brain which led to the development of a tumor. In this concept, the roles of the head of the family were misused to an extend of abusing the family.
Denial of the freedom of expression is expressed, contributing to societal conflicts in different societal setups. Ariel Castro locks up the three ladies in a basement and commands that they should not get out. Attempts to escape were punished severely and this seemed like a captivity to them. Amanda tries to shout for help by poking her hand from the chain-locked door. She calls the police who later responds to her rescue.
Alternatively, humiliation and disappointments are associated with the conflict theory in society. Castro had impregnated Knight forcefully at least five times. He later induced miscarriages to her through punching, beatings and hitting her with dumbbells (Dryden-Smith et al.). This act was humiliating and made Knight undergo pain and depression. She was also ordered to assist in the birth of Berry’s child, which occurred in a swimming pool. Castro threatened to kill her if the baby died due to inadequate care. In another setup, Gina is disappointed since Castro convinces her for a lift to home. Her trust was built on the fact that he was a teenager friend to her mother and later kidnaped.
In summary, the concept ‘risk’ is directly applicable to the conflict theory as illustrated in the video given. The theme of women’s oppression is illustrated when three girls are kidnaped by Ariel Castro. He misuses his power as the head of the family and later humiliates three girls in his residence. This video illustrates the various conflicts arising in society due to differences in resource allocation and power. Individuals are denied their rights of expression and life as seen in the miscarriage that Knight experiences.
Works Cited
“Cleveland Kidnapping BBC Crime Documentary 2015 The Case of Amanda Berry 2.” YouTube, uploaded by Kaka Coucou, Web.
Flohr, Mikkel. “Karl Marx’s Critique of the State as an Alienation of Society in His 1843 Critique of Hegel’s Doctrine of State.” Distinctions: Journal of Social Theory, 2023, pp. 1–25.