To what extent do the laws of society represent the public good as
against the interests of the people in power?  How would conflict
theorists answer this question?

I like the comment from I think it was Lord Shaftsbury (not 100% sure
it was him), that ?The force of the law would apply equally to rich
and poor alike, including all those who stole bread or slept under
bridges.?

With rare exceptions laws (and programs) benefit the middle class and
the rich and powerful, more than poor folks. The enforcement is also
biased conciderably. Replacing most of the laws with voluntary guide
lines would benefit the majority and the more honorable of the rich
and powerful. Reject Republicans and Democrats. Choose Libertarian =
liberty = freedom = lots less government = abollish the Income Tax and
replace it with nothing. Make government function on lots less money. 
 Neil

Lloyd George told us that Income Tax was only a tempory measure and he
was a Liberal so it must be true.