Yes, several ideas and theories have contributed to the formation of social movements. Marx's theory of class conflict is a significant idea that explains how social movements emerge. According to Marx, economic processes generally tend to generate class conflicts. The ruling classes promote a dominant ideology that justifies their domination and the existing social order, often making people believe that their condition is due to 'fate' or past deeds.

However, these dominant ideologies can be challenged by alternative worldviews or rival ideologies. When consciousness spreads among different classes, it creates conditions for collective action. This explains how marginalised groups come together to question existing social arrangements.

Another important idea is that in modern societies, individuals with similar goals come together voluntarily to form groups and associations. These groups are oriented towards specific goals and enable individuals to establish their distinct identity. This characteristic feature of modern societies facilitates the formation of social movements.

People also join together to form collectivities despite being from different class backgrounds and having conflicting interests. This shows that social movements can emerge across class lines when people unite around common concerns. The spread of awareness and the ability to challenge dominant ideologies remain central to understanding how social movements form.