Chapter 13 Social Movements

Social Movements Less formal, less organized way that citizens can participate in government An informal collective movement of people who are loosely coordinated in their actions and use flexible tactics Have some sort of leadership group (though loosely based) to give their actions cohesion

Social Movements Where there is a strong civil society (see Chapter 1), there are often strong social movements. Existed as far back as Rome but have burgeoned in past two centuries likely due to: Opportunity Mobilization structure Framing (ie, perception of problem and hope that group can make a difference)

Organization & Social Movements Usually very loosely organized but when very organized, similar to interest groups Disadvantages of loose organization: Difficult to amass resources politicos used to Loose organization usually means movements are short lived (have an end)

Organization & Social Movements Advantages of loose organization: Can be very at-the-ready in defining goals and roles Can shift tactics quickly