Relative Deprivation Theory: An In-Depth Analysis

Relative deprivation theory examines the interplay between individuals' expectations and the capacity of institutions to fulfill those expectations. In this essay, we will explore the three primary forms of deprivation outlined by Gurr and Robert (1971): decremental, aspirational, and progressive. Additionally, we will delve into the factors influencing the intensity of relative deprivation and its relationship with collective violence and protests. Furthermore, we will investigate the practical applications of this theory, from historical contexts, such as early European communities during the industrial revolution, to modern-day urban issues in the UK.

Types of Deprivation

Decremental deprivation occurs when value expectations remain constant, while institutional capabilities to meet those values decline (Gurr and Robert, 1971).

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In contrast, aspirational deprivation involves an increase in value expectations while institutional capabilities remain constant. Progressive deprivation, often referred to as the J-curve model, describes a situation where rising expectations are initially matched by rising capabilities, but over time, a gap develops between value expectations and capabilities (Gurr and Robert, 1971).

Factors Influencing Relative Deprivation Intensity

The intensity of relative deprivation varies based on several factors. First, the perceived scale of the gap between expectations and capabilities plays a pivotal role. Moreover, as Michael Kimmel (1990) points out, factors such as "the number of alternative outlets for aggressive behavior besides political violence" and "the number of satisfactions that might depress the level of frustration" influence the intensity of relative deprivation (Kimmel, 1990:78). In essence, the greater the perceived gap between expectations and capabilities, the more relevant the grievances, the fewer non-violent outlets available, and the longer the duration of deprivation, the more intense it becomes (Kimmel, 1990:78).

Relative Deprivation and Collective Action

Relative deprivation theory offers insights into the motivations behind urban riots and collective protests. Surprisingly, it is often the more advantaged members within disadvantaged groups who engage in collective action. This phenomenon is attributed to their propensity to make "subjective social comparisons" with more advantaged groups (Gilbert, 1998:596).

Historically, relative deprivation theory has been closely associated with the widespread riots in the USA during the 1960s. Following the civil rights era, many African Americans felt increasingly dissatisfied as they compared their lives to those of their white counterparts. This led to feelings of inequality and injustice due to unmet relative outcomes (Sarat, 2004:437).

Political Marginality and Relative Deprivation

Understanding the connection between relative deprivation and political marginality is essential in comprehending collective violence and riots. McLaughlin et al. (2003) stress that political marginalization alone is unlikely to result in a riot unless there is an added sense of frustration related to relative deprivation (McLaughlin et al, 2003:146). Moreover, they emphasize that frustration will not arise even in a marginalized social group unless that group desires to participate in the social structure and opportunities from which they are excluded (McLaughlin et al, 2003:146).

Application of Relative Deprivation Theory

Relative deprivation theory provides a lens through which we can analyze various social movements and conflicts throughout history. For instance, early European communities during the industrial revolution were prone to rioting due to the perceived threat of urban and industrial expansion. In contemporary Britain, rising street crime and collective violence have been attributed to increasing political marginality and a heightened sense of relative deprivation. Mass media portrayal of popular culture has been identified as a contributor to this phenomenon, as it lowers morale among the unemployed and disadvantaged, exacerbating their feelings of relative deprivation (McLaughlin et al, 2003:148).

Moreover, relative deprivation theory has been instrumental in explaining violent conflicts worldwide. It posits that riots and conflicts often erupt when people perceive that they are being denied what they believe they deserve. As Diana Kendall (2008) asserts, individuals who are content with their current conditions are less likely to seek social change (Kendall, 2008:555). This highlights that social change is rooted in people's reactions to objective circumstances, which, in turn, depend on their subjective comparisons and perceptions of relative deprivation (Walker and Smith, 2002).

Conclusion

In conclusion, relative deprivation theory offers valuable insights into the relationship between individuals' value expectations and the capabilities of institutions to meet those expectations. It encompasses three primary forms of deprivation - decremental, aspirational, and progressive. The intensity of relative deprivation is influenced by factors such as the perceived gap, the relevance of grievances, the availability of non-violent outlets, and the duration of deprivation.

This theory sheds light on the motivations behind urban riots, collective protests, and conflicts. It is often the more advantaged members within disadvantaged groups who engage in collective action, driven by their propensity for subjective social comparisons. Historical events, such as the 1960s USA riots, can be understood through the lens of relative deprivation.

Moreover, political marginality is closely linked to relative deprivation, with frustration arising when marginalized groups desire to participate in the social structure from which they are excluded. Relative deprivation theory has been applied to analyze various social movements and conflicts, from early European communities during the industrial revolution to contemporary issues in the UK.

Ultimately, this theory helps us comprehend the dynamics of collective violence and social change, highlighting that people's reactions to objective circumstances are shaped by their subjective comparisons and perceptions of relative deprivation.