ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the school of thought which has predominated in the study of race relations in South Africa and of South African history and society in general. The theoretical framework of the school of thought may comprise a particular synthesis of two specific approaches – that of neoclassical functionalism and dualism, and that of pluralism. The basic picture of the social formation is rooted and articulated within the functionalist and dualist framework of neo-classical economics. In terms, the system of racial domination is characterised as a dysfunctional intrusion upon the harmonious system of group relations constituted by the capitalist economic system. Focusing on the South African racial system as it developed and was institutionalised in the gold mining industry, this system is analyzed as a class system, as a system of class instruments. A quasi-Marxist, quasi-structuralist approach may hopefully contribute something of value in the race relations and minority groups area.
