Discuss the concept of relative deprivation.

Relative deprivation is a sociological concept that refers to the perceived disadvantage experienced by individuals or groups when they compare their circumstances to those of others with whom they identify or to societal norms and expectations. It is not an objective measure of deprivation but rather a subjective perception of being unfairly disadvantaged in comparison to others.

The theory of relative deprivation suggests that feelings of discontent, frustration, or resentment arise when individuals believe they are not receiving their fair share of resources, opportunities, or rewards in comparison to their reference group. This reference group could be people in the same socioeconomic class, community, or any other relevant category.

Relative deprivation can lead to various social phenomena, including social unrest, collective action, or a sense of injustice. It is often linked to issues of social inequality and can fuel movements for social change or demands for a fair distribution of resources.

For example, if a group of workers perceives that their wages are significantly lower than those of workers in similar industries or regions, they may experience relative deprivation, leading to dissatisfaction and potentially motivating collective efforts to address their perceived unfair treatment.