People's revolution in Egypt

People's Revolution In Egypt

On January 28th Egypt would explode into nearly three weeks of mass protests that would end with ouster of President Hosni Mubarak. This was an important event from a sociological perspective, because it highlights how the conflict theory is correct in identifying the underlying causes of the uprising. As the majority of the people wanted better economic opportunities and working conditions. This is supports the ideas presented in the theory, which states that conflicts will occur in society based upon the lack of: opportunity and equality that exists. (Newman, 2008, pp. 292 -- 316) in the case of Egypt, this is true as the Mubarak government ruled for thirty years and created various divisions in society. These two factors would help to fuel the anger and resentment that boiled over in Tahrir (Liberation) Square, with this becoming the epicenter for the resistance movement. ("Egypt Revolution," 2011) However, to fully understand what took place from a sociological perspective requires examining: the role of the various groups involved and how the social conflict theory would play a part in analyzing these events. Together, these different elements will provide the greatest insights, as to what are the underlying root causes of the revolution.

The Role of Different Groups Involved in the Uprising

During the uprising there were a number of different groups that were a part of the events that took place. Some of the most notable include: President Mubarak, the Egyptian Army and the protestors. These various groups all contributed to the outcome, based upon the actions that were taken during the uprising.

As far as President Mubarak is concerned, he was attempting to hold on to power as long as possible. At first, he a cracked down on the protests by: using the police and then he supported attacks from political operatives. They would directly engage the protestors in Tahrir Square. This would escalate the underlying levels of violence, as the government was unable to prevent the protest from continuing. Once it became clear, that this approach was not working, there would be a shift in tactics. In this case, Mubarak would reshuffle his cabinet, in an attempt to restore order. However, this was ineffective, as the protests would continue until Mubarak officially resigned. This is important, because it shows how the Mubarak government wanted to maintain the status quo at all costs. As he would use force and then addressing the demands of the protestors to calm fears. ("Egypt Revolution," 2011)

The Egyptian Army would play a role in the conflict, by serving as a go between for the protestors and the government. This is because the Army has been directly in control of the government, from behind the scenes since the 1950's. At the same time, they had the respect of the protestors. During the uprising, their refusal to use force against the protestors would mean that Mubarak's options were becoming limited. Where, the Army was starting to side with the protestors, by refusing to directly attack them (in an effort to restore order). This is important, because it is showing how support of the Army would have an impact upon the events that were unfolding. As they were pushing Mubarak, to respect the wishes of the protestors, while indirectly supporting their actions (by not becoming involved in the conflict). At which point, they were seen as a neutral between the two different sides. ("Egypt Revolution," 2011)

The protestors played a role in the conflict, by pushing for various changes to take place. This is despite the fact that they were: attacked, some of their key leaders were sent to jail and access the Internet was shut down. Yet, despite these different obstacles the underlying message would spread through the social networking site Facebook. This is when many of the protestors would become united and galvanized under a common cause. Where, this would push them to continue with their demonstrations; until their issues surrounding: the frustrations with the government and lack of opportunity were addressed (starting with the resignation of President Mubarak). This is important, because it shows how the Facebook page would help to: unite the protestors under one common cause and it kept the momentum of the movement going (during the middle of the crackdown). ("Freed Google Executive," 2011)

The Social Conflict Theory and the Uprising

Using the social conflict theory, it is clear that this would have an impact upon the situation that was occurring in Egypt. As the protestors were tired of living under a repressive government, that supported those individuals who were members of the ruling party and wealthy. This is important, because it would create the divisions in society that would make the protests so powerful. As violent clashes would begin to occur, due to the inequalities that has existed in society for too long. In many ways, one could argue that this was root cause of the recent uprisings, as millions of ordinary people wanted to see a change in the government. To one that is responsive to: their needs and can address the vast amounts of social inequality. What make the situation different from other conflicts; is that the Army would play a central role in serving as a go between for the two sides. At which point, they were able to address the concerns of the protestors, while preventing the violence from spiraling out of control. (Newman, 2008, pp. 292 -- 316)