Michael Clayton: Conflict Theory

In this movie there are many scenes that resemble parts of the conflict theory. Throughout the entire movie there are different cases of class struggle. Michael Clayton also does an excellent job at showcasing how the various conflict develop between the classes. The movie also has a part where it contradicts the movie as well. It is a good movie to use to gain a better understanding of the Conflict Theory of crime. The main characters in the movie belong to various classes. Michael Clayton is part of a large attorney firm however, it is obvious that he does not have that much money. Michael is struggling to pay off a debt that he owes. In addition to Michael, there are various members of the class action lawsuit that do not appear to have

U-North is currently being sued by a large amount of people for having carcinogens in there weed killer. They are looking at paying out billions of dollars to these people that they harmed. Throughout the movie the viewer is aware of the fact that not only is U-North aware that they are making this faulty weed killer, but the boss of the law firm is also aware of it. In his meeting with Michael, he exposes that he knows about U-North but does not make it seem like a big deal. This is mostly because both of these people are part of large companies with plenty of money and power. However, Michael does not approve of this and goes out of his way to make sure U-North is penalized for their actions. Because Michael does not have as much power and money, he can see the harm in what U-North is doing and wants to fight for something to be done about

The theory suggests that when these powerless groups begin to feel alienated there will be a backlash, however, it will happen against the wrong people. They will not attack the people that are in power and are part of the state. In the movie although, the people in the lawsuit and Michael both go after the powerful U-North company. They attack the people and company that are in power and try to take them down. This movie is full of conflict theory. The film splits the characters into the two sides. The bourgeoisies think that they can adjust the truth and get what they want just because they are the “ruler” in the society. However, this is challenged by the proletariats when they feel oppressed and alienated through the lawsuit and the work of Michael Clayton. It is the conflict between these two groups that lead to all of the crime in the movie and showcases the class struggle that the conflict theory talks