Society consists of numerous interconnected, interacting, and interdependent groups, which invariably differ in both power and status. Inequality and conflict between social groups entails economic as well as sociological and political factors. The tensions that arise between these groups are the root of society's most difficult problems -- sometimes, the root of its disintegration. Ethnic and minority conflict is an inherent part of social life. The study of specific ethnic and minority groups reflects the fact that people live in very powerful competitive modern or traditional societies; also, that group conflict and inequality is generally the social norm rather than the exception.