Social Movements and Contentious Politics: Cambridge Studies in Comparative Politics

Social movements are a major force in contemporary politics. They have played a key role in bringing about social change, from the abolition of slavery to the civil rights movement. In recent years, social movements have become increasingly global in scope, with activists from all over the world coming together to address common concerns. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the field of social movements and contentious politics, drawing on a wide range of theoretical and empirical research. It offers a critical assessment of the major theories of social movements, and explores the key concepts and debates in the field. It also provides a detailed analysis of a wide range of social movements, including those that have emerged in the global South.

Power in Movement: Social Movements and Contentious Politics (Cambridge Studies in Comparative Politics)

by Sidney G. Tarrow

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3025 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	354 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

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Theories of Social Movements

There are a wide range of theories that attempt to explain the emergence and development of social movements. Some of the most prominent theories include:

• Resource mobilization theory: This theory argues that social movements are most likely to emerge when there is a high level of resources available to potential activists. These resources can include money, time, skills, and knowledge.
• Political opportunity theory: This theory argues that social movements are most likely to emerge when there is a favorable political climate. This can include a weak or unresponsive government, a sympathetic public opinion, or a supportive legal environment.
• New social movement theory: This theory argues that social movements are increasingly shaped by new social and cultural factors, such as the rise of identity politics and the decline of traditional class divisions.

Key Concepts and Debates

In addition to the major theories of social movements, there are a number of key concepts and debates that are central to the field. These include:

• Collective action: This refers to the process by which individuals come together to achieve a common goal. It is a key component of social movements, as it allows activists to pool their resources and mobilize their力量.
• Social change: This refers to the process by which society is transformed. Social movements play a key role in social change, as they can challenge the status quo and push for new policies and practices.
• Political protest: This refers to the use of public demonstrations and other forms of collective action to express dissent and demand change. It is a common tactic used by social movements, as it can raise awareness of an issue and put pressure on policymakers.
• Social activism: This refers to the use of non-violent methods to promote social change. It is a key component of social movements, as it allows activists to engage with the public and build support for their cause.
• Civil society: This refers to the sphere of social life that is outside of the state and the market. It includes organizations such as churches, charities, and labor unions. Social movements are often rooted in civil society, as they provide a space for activists to organize and mobilize.
• Globalization: This refers to the increasing interconnectedness of the world. Globalization has had a major impact on social movements, as it has created new opportunities for activists to connect with each other and share ideas and strategies.

Case Studies

In addition to the theoretical and conceptual overview, this book also provides a detailed analysis of a wide range of social movements. These case studies include:

• The civil rights movement in the United States
• The environmental movement
• The anti-globalization movement
• The Occupy movement
• The Black Lives Matter movement

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the field of social movements and contentious politics. It offers a critical assessment of the major theories of social movements, and explores the key concepts and debates in the field. It also provides a detailed analysis of a wide range of social movements, including those that have emerged in the global South. This book is an essential resource for anyone interested in

Power in Movement: Social Movements and Contentious Politics (Cambridge Studies in Comparative Politics)

by Sidney G. Tarrow

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3025 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	354 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE