Economically, this disparity in power and control over resources is quite evident in a Harris Poll taken last July. The Poll showed that 77% of Americans believe CEOs "earn too much." The CEO of a large company ears $10.8 million on average while the average worker makes $29,544 a year (Rhiannon 1). Conflict theory would explain the social problem of corporate corruption and excessive CEO pay packages as stemming from the difference in wealth and power of corporate America and average workers. CEOs are able to control resources to a greater level, so workers have few means of achieving greater equity in power or pay. Because legislators are also wealthy, powerful individuals, they often side with CEOs or corporate America over the concerns of the average workers. Therefore, conflict theory explains some of the economic factors that have led to the current crisis in the American economy.
"Conflict Theory." 2005. 30 Jan. 2009 .
"Executive PayWatch." AFL-CIO. 2009. 30 Jan 2009 .
Rheannon, Francesca. "Excessive CEO Compensation Hurting US Companies and Society." Investment News (2009). 30 Jan. 2009 .