Social movements: an introduction

The study of social movements: recurring questions, (partially) changing answers -- Social changes and social movements -- The symbolic dimension of collective action -- Collective action and identity -- Individuals, networks, and participation -- Organizations and organizing within social movements -- Eventful protests -- Political opportunities for social movements -- The effects of social movements.

Now in its third edition, Social Movements is the market-leading introductory text on collective action in contemporary society. The text draws from theory-driven, systematic empirical research from across the social sciences to address central questions and concepts in the field. Sophisticated yet reader-friendly chapters offer critical analyses of relevant literature whilst exploring important issues and debates. The global political landscape has undergone significant changes in the years since this book's initial publication, such as the spread of online protests, the resurgence of nationalist and right-wing activity, global revolts, and increased social and economic polarization. This thoroughly updated edition offers fresh discussions of recent social movements against austerity from around the world, new empirical examples, references to recent episodes of contention, an expanded comparative approach to social movement theory in the scientific literature, and more. Presents an empirical and engaging exploration of contemporary social movements. Discusses topics such as organizing within social movements, eventful protests, political opportunities, symbolism and identity in collective action, and social change. Highlights how core mechanisms of collective action operate in different movements, past and present. Provides a conceptual methodology useful for social science students and researchers alike. Highlights how core mechanisms of collective action operate in different movements in the past and present.

Contents; Preface to the Second Edition; 1 The Study of Social Movements: Recurring Questions, (Partially) Changing Answers; 1.1 Four Core Questions for Social Movement Analysis; 1.2 What is Distinctive about Social Movements?; 1.3 On This Book; 2 Social Changes and Social Movements; 2.1 Social Structure, Political Cleavages, and Collective Action; 2.2 States, Markets, and Social Movements; 2.3 Knowledge, Culture, and Conflicts; 2.4 Structural Transformations, New Conflicts, New Classes; 2.5 Summary; 3 The Symbolic Dimension of Collective Action; 3.1 Culture and Action: The Role of Values

Intro -- Contents -- Preface to the Second Edition -- 1 The Study of Social Movements: Recurring Questions, (Partially) Changing Answers -- 1.1 Four Core Questions for Social Movement Analysis -- 1.2 What is Distinctive about Social Movements? -- 1.3 On This Book -- 2 Social Changes and Social Movements -- 2.1 Social Structure, Political Cleavages, and Collective Action -- 2.2 States, Markets, and Social Movements -- 2.3 Knowledge, Culture, and Conflicts -- 2.4 Structural Transformations, New Conflicts, New Classes -- 2.5 Summary -- 3 The Symbolic Dimension of Collective Action -- 3.1 Culture and Action: The Role of Values -- 3.2 Culture and Action: The Cognitive Perspective -- 3.3 Problems and Responses -- 3.4 Summary -- 4 Collective Action and Identity -- 4.1 How Does Identity Work? -- 4.2 Multiple Identities -- 4.3 Does Identity Facilitate Participation? -- 4.4 How Is Identity Generated and Reproduced? -- 4.5 Summary -- 5 Individuals, Networks, and Participation -- 5.1 Why Do People Get Involved in Collective Action? The Role of Networks -- 5.2 Do Networks Always Matter? -- 5.3 Individuals and Organizations -- 5.4 Individual Participation, Movement Subcultures, and Virtual Networks -- 5.5 Summary -- 6 Social Movements and Organizations -- 6.1 Organizational Dilemmas in Social Movements -- 6.2 Types of Social Movement Organizations -- 6.3 How Do Social Movement Organizations Change? -- 6.4 From Movement Organizations to Social Movement Networks -- 6.5 Summary -- 7 Action Forms, Repertoires, and Cycles of Protest -- 7.1 Protest: A Definition -- 7.2 Repertoires of Action -- 7.3 The Logics and Forms of Protest -- 7.4 Strategic Options and Protest -- 7.5 Factors Influencing Repertoire Choice -- 7.6 The Cross-National Diffusion of Protest -- 7.7 Cycles of Protest, Protest Waves, and Protest Campaigns -- 7.8 Summary.