Gaining Political Influence

• Political power generally translates into the ability to enact policies that a particular political figure supports. Political conflict often arises when one party, or political figure, has the power to make changes that they other party is opposed to. Almost without exception, power is linked to greater financial resources. Thus (for some) power is a means in which to attain greater wealth for themselves and their supporters. Others seek such positions to enact positive changes, or changes that will be beneficial to those with little power, such as victims of crimes, the poor or disabled.
  
  

Diametrically Opposing Values

• There are numerous "value" issues that cause political conflict in the United States as well as around the world. From abortion rights to gay marriage (two divisive issues in the United States) to the rights of women in some other countries to choose whom to marry or to legally seek a college degree, social issues are often at the forefront of a political struggle. Thus, one of the greatest causes for political conflict is when two groups, or political parties, have diametrically opposing values.
  
  

Defining a Nation

• Often times people that are citizens of the same nation have very different ideas about what their nation's principles or "mission statement" is, or should be. In the United States, for example, the role of religion in government is a highly debated issue. Some believe that religion should inform the actions of states as well as the federal government with the laws of the nation being shaped to fit religious doctrine. Others oppose this view believing in "the separation of church and state" doctrine, promoting a secular government that allows for the free practice of different religious faiths.
  
  

Illegitimate Government

• Throughout the history of the world, governments have been overthrown due to the feeling of the population that those in power were illegitimate. In some cases, the majority may believe that a ruler has enacted brutal policies against his own people. This belief is often the catalyst for citizens of that nation to rebel in order to alleviate the suffering of their people and replace a corrupt government with what they hope will be a government that is fair and just.