New social movement theory

Definition

New social movement theory refers to a framework for understanding the emergence and dynamics of social movements that focus on issues of identity, culture, and social justice rather than traditional political or economic concerns. This theory emphasizes the role of post-materialist values and the significance of collective identities in mobilizing individuals to participate in movements that advocate for change beyond mere economic interests. It highlights how these movements are shaped by cultural factors and the need for social transformation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New social movement theory emerged in the late 20th century as a response to changing societal values and the rise of movements focusing on identity and cultural issues.
2. This theory contrasts with older social movement theories that primarily focused on class struggle, economic inequality, and political power.
3. Key examples of movements analyzed through this lens include environmental movements, LGBTQ+ rights movements, and various feminist movements, all emphasizing cultural change.
4. New social movement theory also highlights the importance of global interconnectedness, recognizing how local movements can draw inspiration from and influence global issues.
5. It suggests that these movements utilize new forms of communication and organization, such as social media, to mobilize support and foster community among participants.

Review Questions

• How does new social movement theory differ from traditional theories of social movements in terms of focus and motivation?
  • New social movement theory differs from traditional theories by emphasizing the importance of identity, culture, and post-materialist values rather than just political or economic concerns. Traditional theories often centered on class struggles and material interests as primary motivations for mobilization. In contrast, new social movement theory highlights how factors such as collective identity, cultural expression, and social justice drive individuals to engage in movements that seek broader societal transformations.
• Discuss the role of collective identity within new social movement theory and its impact on mobilization.
  • Collective identity plays a crucial role in new social movement theory by creating a shared sense of belonging among participants. This shared identity fosters solidarity and motivates individuals to join movements that resonate with their values and experiences. When people identify with a particular cause or group, they are more likely to engage actively in collective actions, thereby amplifying the movement's impact. The stronger the collective identity, the more cohesive and resilient the movement becomes in pursuing its goals.
• Evaluate how new social movement theory addresses the influence of globalization on contemporary social movements.
  • New social movement theory evaluates globalization as a significant factor influencing contemporary social movements by highlighting the interconnectedness of local issues with global narratives. Movements today often transcend national boundaries and draw on global networks for support and inspiration. This theory illustrates how local activists adapt global ideas to fit their specific contexts while contributing to broader discourses around issues like climate change or human rights. By understanding this dynamic, we can see how local actions are part of a larger movement towards global justice.

Related terms

Collective Identity: The shared sense of belonging or group identity among members of a social movement, which fosters solidarity and motivates collective action.

Post-Materialism: A value orientation that prioritizes non-material concerns, such as environmental protection, human rights, and social equality, over traditional material needs like economic security.

Cultural Politics: The way in which cultural symbols and practices are used to negotiate power and influence within society, often central to the agendas of new social movements.