Which theory of social change suggests that social movements that promise to restore things to the way they were are appealing to people who feel they are losing their place in society?

Relative deprivation theory focuses on the perceived gap between what individuals have and what they believe they should have, often leading to discontent and mobilization. However, it does not specifically address the desire to return to a previous state, rather emphasizing feelings of inadequacy compared to others.

Value-added theory explains how social movements develop through a series of conditions that accumulate over time, including structural strain and the mobilization of resources. While relevant to movement dynamics, it does not center on the nostalgia for a past state, which is central to the concept of declining privilege.

Resource mobilization theory emphasizes the importance of resources—such as time, money, and organizational strength—in the formation and success of social movements. Although it is crucial for understanding how movements operate, it overlooks the emotional and psychological elements related to feelings of loss or nostalgia that motivate action.