The conflict perspective is a major sociological approach that assumes that social behaviour is best understood in terms of conflict or tension between competing groups over scarce resources. Unlike the functionalist perspective, which emphasises social harmony and stability, the conflict perspective highlights power struggles, inequality, and social change as inherent features of society. Key theorists associated with the conflict perspective include Karl Marx, who focused on class conflict, and Max Weber, who considered conflict arising from differences in class, status, and power. Contemporary conflict theorists examine various sources of social conflict, including those based on race, ethnicity, gender, age, and other forms of social inequality. This perspective views social institutions and social order as often reflecting the interests of the dominant groups in society.