Social conflict as theoretical tool for historical and sociological interpretation

Abstract

The concepts are tools used by scientists of Humanities for intellectual labor. Relevant artifacts, concepts differentiate scientific analysis from common sense. This essay discusses one of these tools, the concept of social conflict. Considering the recent events in the world and especially in Brazil, this concept will gain prominence. However, the academic debate lacks theoretical approaches, at the risk of superficiality. Supported by authors such as Pierre Bourdieu, Georg Simmel, E. P. Thompson and Axel Honneth, we propose an approach that goes beyond the utilitarian interpretation of the concept. Thus, it is expected to contribute to the understanding of past, historical, and current, sociological, social movements.