Final answer:
Conflict theorists, following the perspective of Karl Marx, value social change over stability as a means to address and correct societal inequalities and power imbalances. This approach aims to alter the social structures that benefit a minority at the majority's expense, leading to a fairer society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Conflict theorists argue that social change, rather than stability, is preferable for society since it is necessary to improve societal conditions and alleviate inequality. Karl Marx, the forefather of conflict theory, saw society as a battleground over limited resources, with different social classes vying for power and wealth. This theory emphasizes the inherent inequality in societal structures, which benefit certain groups at the expense of others, perpetuating the dominance of the elite over the proletariat. Change, from this perspective, is necessary to correct the imbalances and foster a fairer, more egalitarian society.
It is important to note while conflict theory acknowledges the existence of social institutions that maintain the status quo, it scrutinizes these institutions for perpetuating power imbalances. Marxists and other conflict theorists believe that highlighting and addressing these inequalities can lead to positive social change, challenging the power structures that contribute to social stratification. Therefore, conflict theory predominantly advocates for change over stability to combat the systemic issues within society.