New social movement theory

Definition

New social movement theory is an analytical framework that focuses on the emergence and dynamics of social movements that arose in the late 20th century, emphasizing identity, culture, and post-materialist values over traditional economic or class-based concerns. This theory highlights how these movements often transcend national boundaries, advocating for diverse issues such as environmentalism, human rights, and gender equality, which are seen as a response to the complex realities of globalization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New social movement theory emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, highlighting the significance of non-material concerns like identity, lifestyle, and environmental issues.
2. Unlike traditional movements that focused primarily on class struggle or economic redistribution, new social movements address a broader spectrum of issues including feminism, anti-globalization, and LGBTQ+ rights.
3. These movements often utilize modern communication technologies and social media to organize, mobilize supporters, and spread their messages across national borders.
4. New social movements are characterized by their emphasis on grassroots participation, with decentralized organizational structures that empower individuals within the movement.
5. The rise of transnational networks has strengthened new social movements, allowing them to collaborate internationally and share strategies for activism against common challenges.

Review Questions

• How does new social movement theory differ from traditional theories of social movements in terms of focus and goals?
  • New social movement theory differs from traditional theories by shifting the focus from class-based concerns and economic struggles to issues related to identity, culture, and quality of life. While traditional movements primarily aimed at economic redistribution and labor rights, new social movements advocate for rights and recognition related to gender, ethnicity, environment, and lifestyle choices. This shift reflects broader societal changes and the increasing importance of non-material values in shaping collective action.
• Evaluate the impact of globalization on the emergence and effectiveness of new social movements.
  • Globalization has significantly influenced new social movements by facilitating communication and collaboration across borders. The interconnectedness brought about by global networks allows these movements to share resources, strategies, and experiences with activists worldwide. Consequently, issues like climate change or human rights violations are addressed through a transnational lens, enhancing the effectiveness of advocacy efforts. Globalization also presents challenges as movements must navigate complex international power dynamics while striving for local change.
• Critically analyze how identity politics plays a role in shaping the agenda of new social movements.
  • Identity politics is central to new social movements as it emphasizes the unique experiences and struggles of marginalized groups. By focusing on identity—be it based on gender, race, sexuality, or other factors—these movements highlight injustices that are often overlooked in traditional class-based analyses. This approach not only fosters solidarity among group members but also influences public discourse and policy-making by bringing attention to specific needs and perspectives. The critical analysis reveals that while this focus can empower marginalized communities, it may also lead to fragmentation if different identity-based movements compete for recognition or resources.

Related terms

Social movements: Collective efforts by groups of people to promote or resist change in society, often organized around specific issues or causes.

Globalization: The process of increased interconnectedness and interdependence among countries, economies, and cultures, often influencing social movements.

Identity politics: Political positions based on the interests and perspectives of social groups with which people identify, playing a crucial role in new social movements.