What are social movements and how do they differ from other forms of collective action?

Social Movements And Protest Politics Questions Medium



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What are social movements and how do they differ from other forms of collective action?

Social movements can be defined as organized efforts by a group of individuals who come together to bring about social, political, or cultural change. These movements are characterized by their collective action, where people mobilize and work towards a common goal or cause.

Social movements differ from other forms of collective action in several ways. Firstly, social movements are usually focused on broader social issues and seek to challenge existing power structures or systems. They often aim to address injustices, inequalities, or advocate for the rights of marginalized groups. In contrast, other forms of collective action may be more localized or specific in nature, such as labor strikes or community protests.

Secondly, social movements are often sustained over a longer period of time and involve a larger number of participants. They typically have a more organized structure, with leaders, activists, and supporters working together to achieve their objectives. Other forms of collective action, on the other hand, may be more spontaneous and short-lived, driven by immediate grievances or concerns.

Furthermore, social movements often employ a variety of tactics and strategies to bring about change. These can include peaceful protests, demonstrations, civil disobedience, lobbying, or even acts of civil resistance. Other forms of collective action may be more limited in their range of tactics or rely on specific methods, such as strikes or boycotts.

Lastly, social movements often have a broader impact beyond their immediate goals. They can shape public opinion, influence policy-making, and bring about long-term societal changes. Other forms of collective action may have more immediate and localized effects, such as negotiating better working conditions or resolving specific grievances.

In summary, social movements are organized efforts by a group of individuals to bring about social change, focusing on broader issues and challenging existing power structures. They differ from other forms of collective action in terms of their scope, duration, organization, tactics, and impact.