Social Movement Theories: A Comprehensive Introduction

Introduction

Social movements are a powerful force for change in society. They can bring about new policies, change social norms, and even overthrow governments. But what exactly are social movements, and how do they work?

In this comprehensive introduction, Maria da Glória Gohn provides a clear and concise overview of the major theories of social movements. She draws on a wide range of disciplines, including sociology, political science, history, and psychology, to provide a well-rounded understanding of this complex phenomenon.

Key Concepts

Gohn begins by defining social movements and discussing some of the key concepts that are used to study them. These concepts include:

• Collective action: The coordinated efforts of a group of people to achieve a common goal.
• Social change: The alteration of social structures, norms, or values.
• Political opportunity: The conditions that make it possible for social movements to emerge and succeed.
• Resource mobilization: The process by which social movements acquire the resources they need to function.
• Framing: The way that social movements define and communicate their goals and objectives.

Types of Social Movements

Gohn then discusses the different types of social movements that exist. These include:

• Reform movements: Movements that seek to change specific policies or laws.
• Revolutionary movements: Movements that seek to overthrow the existing social order.
• Identity movements: Movements that seek to promote the interests of a particular group of people.
• New social movements: Movements that emerged in the late 20th century and are characterized by their focus on issues such as environmental protection, peace, and human rights.

Theories of Social Movements

Gohn devotes the bulk of the book to discussing the major theories of social movements. These theories include:

• Resource mobilization theory: This theory emphasizes the importance of resources in the success of social movements.
• Political opportunity theory: This theory emphasizes the importance of political opportunities in the success of social movements.
• New social movement theory: This theory emphasizes the importance of cultural change in the success of social movements.
• Frame alignment theory: This theory emphasizes the importance of framing in the success of social movements.

Conclusion

Gohn concludes the book by discussing the implications of social movement theory for social change. She argues that social movements are a powerful force for change, but that they are also complex and unpredictable. She calls for more research on social movements in order to better understand how they work and how they can be used to bring about positive social change.

Why You Should Read This Book

Social Movement Theories is a comprehensive and well-written introduction to the study of social movements. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand this important phenomenon.

Here are a few reasons why you should read this book:

• It provides a clear and concise overview of the major theories of social movements.
• It draws on a wide range of disciplines to provide a well-rounded understanding of social movements.
• It is written in a clear and engaging style that makes it easy to understand.
• It is full of insights and examples that will help you to think critically about social movements.

If you are interested in social movements, then I highly recommend that you read Social Movement Theories. It is a valuable resource that will help you to understand this important phenomenon.