Week 11B Social Movements

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Questions and Answers

What does Resource Mobilization theory (RMT) focus on?

The organization of resources, how to pool them, and use them effectively for a social movement. Essentially, it considers the logistics of social mobilization.

What are New Social Movements (NSMs)?

New Social Movements are often associated with identity-driven causes, such as peace, environmentalism, LGBTQ rights, and human rights. They are typically characterized by their focus on social justice and collective identity.

What is the relationship between deprivation and social movements?

Deprivation, particularly relative deprivation, can fuel dissatisfaction and motivate individuals to join social movements. This is when a person feels that they have been unfairly denied the same social rewards or opportunities that other individuals in their social group have.

What is Smelser's structural strain theory?

Smelser's structural strain theory proposes that social movements arise when there are existing social tensions, conflicts, deprivations, and discrepancies coupled with several other factors. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the key characteristics of the free-rider problem in social movements?

Individuals benefit from the movement but don't actively participate. Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of 'framing' mean in social movements?

'Framing' refers to the process of presenting issues in a way that resonates with the beliefs, feelings, and desires of potential recruits. Simply put, it's about crafting a message to connect with a larger audience. Signup and view all the answers

How does the free-rider problem influence the success of social movements?

The free-rider problem can undermine the success of social movements, as it can discourage active participation, leading to diminished resources and a smaller pool of dedicated individuals. Signup and view all the answers

What are some ways that social movements can overcome the free-rider problem?

They can utilize a combination of strategies, including coercion, incentives, and professionalization, to motivate individuals to participate and contribute; for example, they might offer perks, salaries, or prestige to active participants. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the key differences between traditional social movements and New Social Movements (NSMs)?

Traditional social movements often focused on socioeconomic issues and class disparities. However, NSMs are characterized by identity-based mobilization, often around issues like civil rights, environmental protection, or LGBTQ rights. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the key characteristics of New Social Movements (NSMs)? (Select all that apply)

Tend to be more international and global in their reach and scope. Signup and view all the answers

How do The Raging Grannies exemplify the characteristics of New Social Movements (NSMs)?

Firstly, they are more focused on identity-based issues, specifically challenging ageism and promoting health care for their community. Second, they are incredibly active on social media and utilize their 'little old lady' image to effectively communicate their message. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Resource Mobilization Theory (RMT) focuses on the organization of resources to effectively achieve goals.
New Social Movements (NSMs) are movements of relatively educated and affluent populations, often focused on identity issues like peace, environmentalism, and LGBTQ+ rights. They are often contrasted with traditional movements, which may be focused more on economic issues.
Relative deprivation is the difference between what individuals think they deserve and what they actually receive. This perceived gap can motivate social movements.
Davies' J-curve illustrates the relationship between deprivation and social movements, showing initial satisfaction increases before a gap occurs that can drive people to rebellion.
Smelser's structural strain theory identifies 6 factors contributing to collective behavior:
- Structural conduciveness (permissiveness of social structures).
- Structural strain (tensions, conflicts, deprivations).
- Growth and spread of an explanation (generalized belief or ideology).
- Precipitating factors (triggers).
Resource Mobilization Theory (RMT) analyzes how social movements organize resources like people, money, and information to achieve their goals. RMT critiques earlier theories that did not consider external factors important (such as outside influence). RMT's focus shifts from why people want change to how groups can organize for effective change.
- Key aspects of RMT are organization of resources, utilitarian logic (cost-benefit analysis), and recruitment (including attracting existing groups).
- Framing is crucial in RMT. Effective frames resonate with individuals' beliefs and aspirations, promoting participation in the movement.
- The "free-rider" problem addresses the issue of individuals benefiting from a movement's success without participating. Mobilization strategies attempt to address this in order to increase participation.
- Mobilization for action and leadership are critical elements for collective movement. Social control (lack of or insufficient control) can also contribute to movement formation.

NSMs emerged in the 1960s and are distinct from earlier, working-class movements.
NSMs are characterized by social media, universalistic goals (peace, environment, LGBTQ+ rights), and identity-oriented perspectives.
Case Studies like the Raging Grannies can be used to understand NSM characteristics: identity, strategic use of identity by a group.

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Description

Explore the dynamics of social movements, including Resource Mobilization Theory and the concepts of New Social Movements. Understand how relative deprivation and structural strain influence collective behavior and lead to social change. This quiz will challenge your knowledge and understanding of key theories and models in this field.