Socio 133 Final
Common themes in studies of social movement origins
Common themes include the importance of grievances, the role of social networks, the impact of political opportunities and constraints, and the role of leadership and organization.
Prisoner's Dilemma
A game theory scenario in which two individuals must decide whether to cooperate or betray each other, with the outcome of the game depending on the combined decisions of both players.
Elite (in Freeman)
A group of individuals who hold a disproportionate amount of power and influence in society, often as a result of their wealth, social status, or political connections.
Constituent (RMT)
A person who is actively involved in a social movement organization and participates in its activities.
Isolated constituent (RMT)
A person who is involved in a social movement organization but is not connected to other members of the organization or the broader social movement.
Adherent (in RMT)
A person who supports a social movement but does not participate actively in its activities.
Effectiveness and diffusion: does a practice have to be effective to spread?
A practice does not necessarily have to be effective to spread. Sometimes practices that are ineffective or even harmful can still spread through various mechanisms such as social influence, authority, or contagion. However, practices that are more effective are more likely to be adopted and sustained in the long term.
Chicago School
A school of sociology that emerged in the early 20th century, centered around the University of Chicago. Chicago School sociologists were known for their focus on urban sociology, social ecology, and symbolic interactionism.
Resource Mobilization Theory (RMT)
A theory developed by the sociologist Charles Tilly, which explains how social movements emerge and mobilize resources to achieve their goals.
Mass Society
A theory that emerged in the mid-20th century, argued that mass media and mass culture were eroding traditional social structures and creating a homogeneous and atomized society.
Iron Law of Oligarchy
A theory that states that all organizations, including social movements, are eventually dominated by a small group of elites who control decision-making and resources.
Bureaucracy
A type of organizational structure characterized by a hierarchical chain of command, formal rules and procedures, and specialized roles and responsibilities.
Federated SMO(RMT)
A type of social movement organization that is composed of multiple smaller organizations that are united under a common umbrella organization.
How has globalization shifted the politics of race in Latin America (Paschel & Sawyer)
According to Paschel and Sawyer, globalization has created new opportunities and challenges for racial politics in Latin America. On one hand, globalization has led to increased multiculturalism and recognition of indigenous and Afro-Latinx cultures and identities. On the other hand, globalization has also led to increased economic inequality and discrimination against marginalized groups, particularly in the context of neoliberal economic policies. Overall, the authors argue that the politics of race in Latin America are becoming increasingly globalized and complex.
Vulnerabilities and strengths of governments, companies, & educ. institutions facing protest (Walker et al.)
According to Walker et al., governments, companies, and educational institutions are vulnerable to protest when they lack legitimacy, accountability, or responsiveness to the demands of protesters. Strengths include having effective communication channels, engaging in meaningful dialogue with protesters, and being willing to make concessions and changes in response to demands.
SMO / SMI / SMS (RMT)
Acronyms used in Resource Mobilization Theory the different types of social movement organizations: SMO=Social Movement Organization SMI=Social Movement Industry SMS=Social Movement Sector.
Advantages and disadvantages of formalization in SMOs
Advantages: Formalization can lead to more efficient decision-making processes, better accountability, increased legitimacy, and increased resources through the ability to apply for grants and other forms of funding. Disadvantages: Formalization can also lead to bureaucracy, decreased flexibility, and decreased participation from grassroots members who may feel alienated by the hierarchical structure.
Problems of an imbalance between conscience and beneficiary constituents: what is likely to happen when there are too many of one vs. the other?
An imbalance between conscience and beneficiary constituents can lead to conflicts over goals and tactics, and may result in the marginalization of one group or the other.
Resource (RMT)
Anything that can be mobilized to support a social movement, including money, labor, skills, networks, and knowledge.
Astroturf campaign
Astroturf campaign: An astroturf campaign is a political or social campaign that appears to be grassroots or spontaneous but is actually organized or funded by a hidden or influential group or organization.
Buechler's summary and critique of collective behavior theories
Buechler argues that collective behavior theories are too focused on the emotional and irrational aspects of collective action, and do not adequately account for the role of power and structure in shaping social movements.
Ways that businesses adopt social movement practices for their own lobbying (Walker)
Businesses may adopt social movement practices such as lobbying, grassroots organizing, and public relations campaigns in order to influence policy and public opinion. For example, a company may use a grassroots campaign to build support for a particular policy or issue, or may hire a public relations firm to promote its image as a socially responsible company.
Ways that diversity facilitates social movement activism and ways that it may limit potential for mobilization
Diversity can facilitate social movement activism by bringing together a range of perspectives and experiences, but it may also limit the potential for mobilization if there are significant internal conflicts or difficulties in building solidarity across different groups.
Influence of Durhkeim on collective behavior theories
Durkheim argued that social order and solidarity are maintained through shared values and beliefs, and collective behavior theories build on this by examining how groups form and act on shared beliefs and values.
Examples of movements that generated policy change because the political context was favorable (intended) external consequences)
Examples: The Civil Rights Movement in the United States during the 1960s is an example of a movement that generated policy change because the political context was favorable. The movement was able to mobilize public opinion and gain support from political leaders who were sympathetic to their cause, such as President Lyndon B. Johnson, who signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 into law.
Examples of each of the following movement consequences/outcomes: intended internal, intended external, unintended internal, unintended external
Examples: Intended internal: increased solidarity and mobilization among members of the movement Intended external: policy change, social or cultural change, or economic change Unintended internal: factionalism, infighting, or internal division within the movement Unintended external: backlash from opponents of the movement or unintended consequences of policy change
Factors that tend to lead SMOs into oligarchy, and factors that help SMOs to resist this
Factors that tend to lead SMOs into oligarchy include the concentration of power, the formation of specialized roles, and the professionalization of the organization. Additionally, a lack of accountability mechanisms, such as term limits and elections, can also contribute to oligarchic tendencies. Factors that help SMOs resist oligarchy include maintaining an inclusive decision-making process, encouraging participation from a diverse range of members, and implementing transparency and accountability mechanisms.
Factors that make some frames "resonate" while other frames fail to
Frames that resonate with audiences are those that are consistent with people's values, beliefs, and identities. Frames that are simple, clear, and emotionally engaging are also more likely to be effective. Frames that are too complex, inconsistent, or disconnected from people's experiences and identities are less likely to resonate.
How globalization is reshaping social movements and their funding
Globalization has made it easier for social movements to connect and collaborate across borders, and has increased access to funding and resources from international organizations and donors. However, globalization has also created new challenges, such as increased competition for funding, and the potential for co-optation by international organizations or governments.
Hard vs. soft repression
Hard repression refers to the use of physical force or violence to suppress dissent or opposition soft repression refers to more subtle tactics such as censorship, propaganda, or restrictions on free speech.
Identity for education vs identity for critique
Identity for education refers to the process of building a collective identity that supports learning, growth, and collaboration within a social movement Identity for critique refers to the process of challenging and deconstructing dominant identities and power structures. Both types of identity are important for social movement activism.
Smith, Jackie. "The Transnational Network for Democratic Globalization." Chapter 18.
In Chapter 18 of her book "Globalizing Resistance: The Battle of Seattle and the Future of Social Movements," Jackie Smith explores the formation and strategies of the Transnational Network for Democratic Globalization (TNDG), a coalition of social movements and organizations that emerged in the wake of the 1999 Seattle protests against the World Trade Organization. She argues that the TNDG represents a new form of transnational activism that seeks to challenge the dominant neoliberal economic and political order through the use of decentralized and networked tactics. Smith provides an overview of the history and organizational structure of the TNDG, and discusses its key strategies and campaigns, such as the World Social Forum and the Global Justice Movement. She also highlights the challenges and limitations of the TNDG, including the difficulty of maintaining a cohesive and coordinated network, and the tensions between global and local struggles. The chapter concludes by discussing the implications of the TNDG's strategies and tactics for the future of transnational activism and social movements
Hirsch, Eric L. "Generating Commitment among Students." Chapter 10.
In his chapter "Generating Commitment among Students," Hirsch examines the challenges of engaging and mobilizing students in social movements. He argues that while students have historically played a key role in social movements, generating and sustaining their commitment can be difficult. Hirsch discusses various strategies for generating commitment among students, including creating a sense of urgency and moral purpose, building strong interpersonal relationships within the movement, and providing opportunities for meaningful participation and leadership. He also explores the importance of framing and messaging in mobilizing students, emphasizing the need to connect with their values and identities and to provide clear and compelling narratives about the issues at hand. Additionally, Hirsch examines the role of education in social movements and the potential for classrooms and universities to serve as sites of political engagement and activism. Overall, Hirsch's chapter offers valuable insights into the challenges and strategies for mobilizing students in social movements, highlighting the importance of building strong relationships, providing meaningful opportunities for participation, and connecting with students' values and identities
McAdam, Doug. "Recruits to Civil Rights Activism." Chapter 7.
In his chapter "Recruits to Civil Rights Activism," McAdam examines the process by which individuals become involved in the civil rights movement, focusing on the role of social networks, personal experiences, and cognitive liberation in motivating and sustaining activism. He argues that while a sense of moral obligation and commitment to social justice are important factors in motivating individuals to become involved in social movements, personal experiences and social networks also play a crucial role. McAdam discusses the concept of "cognitive liberation," which involves a shift in an individual's perceptions of their own abilities and opportunities for social change. He argues that this cognitive shift is often facilitated by exposure to new ideas and experiences through social networks and movement organizations. Furthermore, McAdam examines the role of recruitment and socialization in sustaining activism, highlighting the importance of mentorship, group cohesion, and the provision of meaningful opportunities for participation. Finally, he explores the challenges and risks associated with civil rights activism, including the potential for violence, repression, and burnout. Overall, McAdam's chapter provides valuable insights into the process of becoming involved in the civil rights movement, emphasizing the importance of social networks, personal experiences, and cognitive liberation in motivating and sustaining activism.
Gamson, Joshua. "The Dilemmas of Identity Politics." Chapter 32.
In his chapter "The Dilemmas of Identity Politics," Gamson examines the challenges and dilemmas faced by social movements that focus on identity politics. He argues that while these movements have made significant progress in advancing the rights and recognition of marginalized groups, they also face potential limitations and pitfalls. Gamson first discusses the concept of identity politics and how it has been used by various social movements. He argues that while identity politics can be a powerful tool for mobilizing people around shared experiences of oppression and discrimination, it can also be limiting in terms of its focus on narrow group identities and lack of intersectionality. Gamson also explores the potential dangers of identity politics, including the risk of essentializing and stereotyping marginalized groups, as well as the possibility of reinforcing existing power structures through co-optation or assimilation. Finally, Gamson offers some potential solutions to the dilemmas of identity politics, including a focus on intersectionality, coalitions across different social movements, and an emphasis on structural change rather than simply individual rights. Overall, Gamson's chapter provides a nuanced and critical perspective on identity politics and its role in social movements, highlighting both its potential and its limitations
Walker, Edward T., Andrew W. Martin, & John McCarthy. 2008. "Confronting the State, the Corporation, and the Academy: The Influence of Institutional Targets on Social Movement Repertoires." American Journal of Sociology 114: 35-76.
In their article "Confronting the State, the Corporation, and the Academy: The Influence of Institutional Targets on Social Movement Repertoires," Walker, Martin, and McCarthy examine how different institutional targets influence the strategies and tactics used by social movements. They argue that social movements are shaped by the institutional targets they confront, and that movements are more likely to adopt tactics that are congruent with the characteristics of those targets. The authors analyze data from the Nonviolent and Violent Campaigns and Outcomes (NAVCO) database, which includes information on over 300 social movements from around the world. They find that movements targeting the state are more likely to use confrontational tactics, such as riots and sabotage, while those targeting corporations are more likely to use market-based tactics, such as boycotts and divestment campaigns. Furthermore, the authors argue that movements targeting the academy are more likely to use discursive tactics, such as public education and symbolic protests. Overall, Walker, Martin, and McCarthy's article highlights the important role of institutional targets in shaping the strategies and tactics used by social movements. Their analysis provides insights into how movements choose and adapt their tactics based on the characteristics of their targets
. "Social Movements and Oppositional Consciousness." Morris, Aldon and Naomi Braine.
In their article "Social Movements and Oppositional Consciousness," Morris and Braine examine the concept of oppositional consciousness within social movements. They argue that oppositional consciousness is a key factor in the success of social movements as it enables individuals to recognize and challenge the dominant power structures in society. The authors explore the formation of oppositional consciousness through various mechanisms, such as shared experiences of injustice, cultural symbols, and collective identity. They also discuss how oppositional consciousness can be sustained through the creation of alternative institutions and practices that challenge dominant norms and values. Furthermore, Morris and Braine emphasize the importance of intersectionality in understanding the complexity of social movements and the different forms of oppression that they aim to address. They argue that successful social movements must be able to recognize and address the intersections of race, gender, class, and other forms of oppression. Overall, Morris and Braine's article highlights the crucial role of oppositional consciousness in social movements and provides insights
"Are Frames Enough?" Ryan, Charlotte and William Gamson
In their chapter "Are Frames Enough?", Ryan and Gamson examine the limitations of frame analysis in understanding the dynamics of social movements and culture. They argue that while frames are an important tool for understanding how activists interpret and communicate their goals and strategies, they do not fully capture the complexity and dynamism of social movement culture. The authors draw on examples from the animal rights movement and the environmental justice movement to illustrate the limitations of frame analysis, highlighting the importance of cultural norms, practices, and symbols in shaping movement identities and strategies. They argue that a more comprehensive approach to understanding social movement culture should take into account the ways in which cultural practices and symbols shape movement identities and mobilization strategies, and how these practices and symbols are influenced by broader social and political contexts. Overall, Ryan and Gamson's chapter provides valuable insights into the limitations of frame analysis in understanding social movement culture, highlighting the importance of taking a more comprehensive and dynamic approach to studying the cultural dynamics of social movements
Snow, David and Sarah Soule. 2010. "Participation in Social Movements," pp. 109-123 in A Primer on Social Movements. New York: W.W. Norton.
In their chapter "Participation in Social Movements," Snow and Soule examine the different levels and types of participation in social movements, and the factors that influence individuals to become involved. They argue that social movements involve a diverse range of participants who engage in varying levels of activity, from passive support to active leadership. They also discuss the concept of collective identity and how it motivates individuals to become involved in social movements by providing a sense of belonging and purpose. Snow and Soule explore the role of networks and mobilizing structures in facilitating participation, highlighting the importance of interpersonal relationships and organizational resources in mobilizing individuals to become involved. Furthermore, they examine the challenges and risks associated with participation in social movements, including the potential for repression, burnout, and co-optation. Overall, Snow and Soule's chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the different levels and types of participation in social movements, and the factors that influence individuals to become involved. Their analysis highlights the importance of collective identity, networks, and mobilizing structures in facilitating participation, while also acknowledging the risks and challenges involved.
Taylor, Verta, Katrina Kimport, Nella Van Dyke, and Ellen Ann Andersen. "TacticalRepertoires: Same-Sex Weddings." Chapter 25.
In their chapter "Tactical Repertoires: Same-Sex Weddings," Taylor, Kimport, VanDke, and Andersen examine the tactical repertoires of the LGBT movement in the struggle for marriage equality, focusing specifically on the use of same-sex weddings as a tactic. They argue that same-sex weddings played a crucial role in the movement for marriage equality, serving as a powerful symbol of love, commitment, and equality, and helping to shift public opinion and build support for legal recognition of same-sex marriage.The authors analyze data from a national survey of LGBT activists and interviews with organizers involved in the same-sex marriage movement, focusing on the use of same-sex weddings as a tactic and the ways in which this tactic was integrated into the movement's broader tactical repertoire. They find that same-sex weddings were used in a variety of ways, including as a form of direct action, as a way to build community and mobilize supporters, and as a means of challenging the cultural and legal norms surrounding marriage.Furthermore, the authors argue that the use of same-sex weddings as a tactic was shaped by a range of factors, including the movement's goals and strategies, the political and legal context, and the organizational resources and structures of the movement.Overall, Taylor, Kimport, VanDke, and Andersen's chapter provides valuable insights into the use of same-sex weddings as a tactic in the movement for marriage equality, highlighting the ways in which this tactic was integrated into the movement's broader tactical repertoire and shaped by a range of contextual and strategic factors
"What Shapes the West's Human Rights Focus?" Ron, James, Howard Ramos, and Kathleen Rodgers
In their chapter "What Shapes the West's Human Rights Focus?", Ron, Ramos, and Rodgers explore the factors that shape the human rights agenda of Western governments and civil society organizations. They argue that while Western actors have played an important role in promoting human rights globally, their focus on certain issues and regions is shaped by a range of political, economic, and cultural factors. The authors draw on examples from the human rights campaigns around Darfur and Tibet to illustrate the ways in which Western actors' priorities are shaped by political considerations, such as the strategic interests of Western governments and the political mobilization of domestic constituencies. They also argue that economic considerations, such as trade relations and investment opportunities, can influence Western actors' human rights agendas, as can cultural factors such as media coverage and public opinion. Overall, Ron, Ramos, and Rodgers' chapter provides valuable insights into the complex factors that shape the human rights focus of Western actors, highlighting the need for a more nuanced understanding of the political, economic, and cultural dynamics that influence human rights activism on the global stage
Meyer, David. 2007. "The State and Protests: Institutionalization." Pp. 123-143 in The Politics of Protest. New York: Oxford.
In this article, David Meyer explores the concept of institutionalization in the context of protest movements and the state. He argues that institutionalization is a process that occurs when protest movements become more organized and adopt more formal structures, strategies, and goals. The state plays a crucial role in this process by responding to protests through various mechanisms, such as repression, cooptation, and negotiation. Meyer suggests that institutionalization can have both positive and negative effects on protest movements, such as increased resources and legitimacy on the one hand, and a loss of radicalism and effectiveness on the other. He also discusses how institutionalization can lead to a shift in power relations between protest movements and the state, and the importance of understanding the dynamics of this relationship. The article concludes by offering suggestions for future research on institutionalization and protest movements
Walker, Edward T. 2010. "Industry-Driven Activism." Contexts 9: 44-49.
In this article, Edward T. Walker examines the phenomenon of industry-driven activism, which refers to cases where corporations and business interests engage in social and political activism to advance their interests. Walker argues that industry-driven activism is a complex and often overlooked aspect of social movements and activism. He provides several examples of industry-driven activism, such as corporate campaigns for environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility, and explores the motivations and strategies behind these efforts. Walker suggests that industry-driven activism can be a powerful force for social change, but also raises questions about the authenticity and effectiveness of these efforts. The article concludes by discussing the implications of industry-driven activism for the future of social movements and activism, and the need for scholars to pay closer attention to this phenomenon
Intended/unintended consequences
Intended consequences are the expected outcomes of a particular action or decision unintended consequences are the unexpected or unforeseen outcomes that may result.
Internal/external consequences.
Internal consequences are the consequences of a particular action or decision within a particular social system External consequences are the consequences of that action or decision for other social systems or the broader society.
Know and provide examples of each type of internal and external diffusion
Internal diffusion refers to the spread of an innovation or practice within a community or organization. There are two types of internal diffusion: a. Vertical diffusion: when an innovation or practice is adopted by a higher authority and then disseminated downwards to subordinates. For example, a government policy is implemented at the national level and then adopted by regional or local governments. b. Horizontal diffusion: when an innovation or practice is adopted by peers within an organization or community. For example, a new teaching method is adopted by several teachers within a school. External diffusion refers to the spread of an innovation or practice between different communities or organizations. There are two types of external diffusion: a. Hierarchical diffusion: when an innovation or practice is adopted by a higher authority in one organization and then disseminated to another organization. For example, a company adopts a new sustainable manufacturing process and then shares it with its suppliers. b. Contagious diffusion: when an innovation or practice spreads through informal networks or social contacts between individuals or communities. For example, the spread of a new fashion trend through social media.
Internal vs. external diffusion
Internal diffusion refers to the spread of new ideas or innovations within a social system External diffusion refers to the spread of new ideas or innovations between different social systems.
Three types of movements from Morris & Braine - how these connect to "oppositional consciousness"
Morris and Braine identified three types of movements: alternative movements, redemptive movements, and reformative movements. These types of movements connect to oppositional consciousness by reflecting different approaches to challenging dominant power structures and seeking social change.
Why movement organizers might select org. forms based on efficiency (Michels, as discussed in lecture) vs. culture/ideology (Polletta)
Movement organizers may select organizational forms based on efficiency, seeking to maximize the resources and effectiveness of the organization. This may involve adopting hierarchical structures, specialized roles, and professionalization. On the other hand, organizers may also prioritize cultural and ideological values in their organizational forms, seeking to maintain democratic decision-making processes and foster a sense of community and shared values within the organization. The choice of organizational form may depend on the goals and values of the movement, as well as the resources and constraints facing the organization.
Reasons why outside support should be particularly important for the emergence of SMs
Outside support can provide SMOs with resources, legitimacy, and increased visibility, which can be crucial for their emergence and success.
Polletta's discussion of how best to understand participatory democracy
Polletta argues that participatory democracy should be understood as a process that involves ongoing negotiation and dialogue between citizens and the state, rather than a fixed set of procedures or institutions.
Ways that protest campaigns can change business/corporate practices (King)
Protest campaigns can change business/corporate practices by raising public awareness and putting pressure on companies to address social and environmental issues. Protesters may engage in boycotts, divestment campaigns, or direct action targeting specific companies. Companies may respond by changing their practices or policies in order to avoid negative publicity or reputational damage.
Public Good/Private Good
Public goods are goods or services that are non-excludable and non-rivalrous, meaning that they are available to all and the consumption of one person does not diminish the availability for others. Private goods, in contrast, are both excludable and rivalrous, meaning that access to the good is restricted and consumption by one person reduces the availability for others.
Assumptions imposed by Resource Mobilization Theory (RMT): about grievances, media, political system, tactics
RMT assumes that grievances are not inherent in a situation, but are constructed through collective action; that media can amplify or suppress the message of a movement; that political systems are not neutral, but rather reflect the interests of those in power; and those tactics should be chosen strategically based on available resources and the political context.
How RMT challenges collective behavior theory
RMT challenges the idea that collective action is primarily motivated by emotional and irrational factors, and instead emphasizes the importance of resources, organization, and strategic decision-making in shaping social movements.
RMT "conversions" : opponent to bystander, bystander to adherent, adherent to constituent
RMT identifies a process of conversion in which opponents become bystanders, bystanders become adherents, and adherents become constituents through a combination of persuasion, identification, and socialization.
The economic analogy in RMT: identify "products," "customers," "companies," etc.
RMT uses an economic analogy to describe social movements as "companies" that produce "products" (e.g., grievances, demands, and mobilization) for "customers" (potential supporters).
Advantages & limitations of RMT vs. Political Process theory in understanding movements
Resource mobilization theory (RMT) emphasizes the importance of resources and organizational capacity in social movements, while political process theory focuses on the interaction between social movements and the broader political context. RMT may be better suited to understanding movements that are well-resourced and organized, while political process theory may be better suited to understanding movements that operate in a more challenging political environment.
Selective Incentives
Rewards or benefits offered by social movements to their members, which are selectively available only to those who participate in the movement.
How SMOs adapt to the presence of isolated constituents
SMOs can use various tactics to engage isolated constituents, such as targeted outreach efforts, creating opportunities for dialogue and participation, and developing messaging that speaks directly to their concerns.
How SMOs tend to respond to "competition" among one another; what they do in response
SMOs may engage in coalition-building, collaboration, or differentiation in response to competition from other movements.
Signals of political opportunity; factors that shape how movements read or misread those signals
Signals of political opportunity refer to the conditions or factors that indicate that a movement's goals may be achievable through the political process, such as changes in government policies, public opinion, or legal decisions. Movements may misread these signals if they overestimate the level of support or fail to recognize obstacles or resistance to their demands.
At which stages of the policy process do social movements tend to have the strongest effects? Weakest?
Social movements tend to have the strongest effects during the agenda-setting and implementation stages of the policy process when they can shape public opinion and influence the actions of policymakers. They tend to have the weakest effects during the evaluation stage when policies are already in place and the focus is on monitoring and adjusting their effects.
"Strength in Diversity? Group Heterogeneity in the Mobilization of Grassroots Organizations." Walker, Edward T. and Lina M. Stepick.
The article examines the relationship between group heterogeneity and the mobilization of grassroots organizations. The authors argue that while diversity can provide strength to organizations, it can also create challenges that hinder mobilization efforts. The article provides a review of existing literature on group diversity, and discusses how diversity can impact organizational goals, communication, and decision-making processes. The authors also highlight the importance of considering the historical and social contexts in which organizations operate, as well as the role of leadership and power dynamics within organizations. The article concludes by discussing the implications of their findings for future research on grassroots mobilization and social movements.
"#SayHerName: A Case Study of Intersectional Social Media Activism." Ethnic & Racial Studies Brown, Melissa, Rashawn Ray, Ed Summers, and Neil Fraistat.
The article examines the use of the #SayHerName hashtag on social media platforms as a form of intersectional social media activism. The authors argue that the hashtag highlights the intersectionality of gender and race in cases of police brutality against women of color. They analyze the content and context of tweets using the hashtag and find that it has been used to raise awareness, express solidarity, and demand justice for victims of police violence. The article also explores the potential limitations and challenges of using social media activism for promoting social justice.
Relevance of free rider problem for SMOs
The free rider problem refers to the tendency for individuals to benefit from collective action without contributing to it. This is relevant for SMOs because it can lead to a lack of resources and decreased motivation among members.
Problems with SMOs that imagine themselves to be "structureless" (Freeman, "tyranny")
The idea of "structurelessness" in SMOs, as described by Jo Freeman, can lead to problems of "tyranny of structurelessness." This occurs when power dynamics are not acknowledged or addressed, and informal hierarchies and cliques form that dominate decision-making processes. This can result in marginalized voices being excluded from decision-making, and a lack of accountability for those who hold informal power.
Free Rider Problem
The problem that arises when individuals can benefit from a collective good without contributing to its production, leading to a situation in which everyone has an incentive to free ride and no one has an incentive to contribute.
SMO Formalization
The process by which social movement organizations become more formalized and bureaucratic over time, often as a result of seeking legitimacy and funding from outside sources.
Know which types of mobilization processes are more easily facilitated by weak ties vs. strong ties
Weak ties are more effective for spreading information and ideas widely, while strong ties are more effective for mobilizing action and building strong social networks.
Oppositional consciousness
a collective awareness among marginalized groups of the systemic and structural nature of their oppression, and a commitment to challenging and resisting that oppression.
Collective identity
a shared sense of belonging and common purpose among a group of people, often based on shared experiences, culture, or values.
Adopter (in diffusion)
an individual or organization that adopts and implements new ideas or innovations.
Transmitter (in diffusion)
an individual or organization that helps to spread new ideas or innovations through a social system.
Consc.vs. Beneficiary(RMT)
conscious participants in a social movement who are aware of its goals and actively work towards achieving them, and beneficiaries who may benefit from the social movement's activities without actively participating in them.
Cooptation
the process by which a powerful institution or group incorporates or absorbs potential challengers or oppositional groups, neutralizing their threat and co-opting their ideas or resources for their own benefit.
Why identity movements tend to self-destruct; building up vs. deconstructing identities (J. Gamson)
if they become too focused on internal conflicts or fail to build alliances across different identity groups. Building up identities through a focus on shared values and goals may be more effective than deconstructing identities through a focus on differences and power struggles.
Equality-based movements
social and political movements that seek to ensure equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, or other characteristics.
Liberation movements
social and political movements that seek to overthrow systems of oppression and domination, and to create a more just and equitable society.
Social responsibility movements
social and political movements that seek to promote social and environmental responsibility among individuals, corporations, and governments.
Strong ties
social connections between individuals that are relatively strong and intimate, such as close friends or family members.
Weak ties
social connections between individuals that are relatively weak or infrequent, such as casual acquaintances, as opposed to strong ties that are more intimate and frequent.
Political opportunity
the conditions and circumstances within a political system that provides opportunities for individuals or groups to advance their interests, such as changes in the political climate, shifts in public opinion, or changes in policy.
Frame Resonance
the degree to which a particular frame or message resonates with the values, beliefs, and experiences of a particular audience, making it more persuasive and compelling.
Tactical innovation
the development of new tactics or strategies by social movements in response to changing circumstances or challenges.
Tactical adaptation
the modification or adjustment of existing tactics or strategies by social movements in response to changing circumstances or challenges.
Institutionalization
the process by which a social movement becomes integrated into formal institutions or structures, such as political parties or government agencies, and gains more formal power and influence.
Mechanisms of institutionalization and examples (Meyer)
the process by which a social movement's goals and values become incorporated into mainstream institutions and practices. Mechanisms of institutionalization include the adoption of movement language and symbols by mainstream actors, the creation of new policies and regulations that reflect movement demands, and the incorporation of movement activists into decision-making processes. An example of institutionalization is the adoption of feminist language and goals by mainstream political parties and organizations.
Micro-mobilization
the process of mobilizing individuals or small groups within a larger social movement, often through personalized or targeted outreach and communication strategies.
Meso-mobilization
the process of mobilizing larger groups or organizations within a social movement, often through formal or institutional channels such as political parties or labor unions.
Tactical repertoire
the range of tactics or strategies that are available to social movements, which may include a variety of protest methods, communication strategies, or legal actions.
Political process
the series of actions and events that occur within a political system, including activities such as campaigning, voting, policymaking, and advocacy.
Preemption
the use of precautionary tactics to prevent a potential challenge or threat from gaining momentum, such as implementing reforms or concessions before a social movement gains widespread support.
Boomerang effect
the way that efforts to suppress or repress a social movement can backfire, generating more support and sympathy for the movement and amplifying its message or impact.
Globalization "from above"
the way that globalization is driven and directed by powerful global institutions or actors, such as multinational corporations or international financial institutions.
Globalization "from below"
the way that globalization is shaped and influenced by grassroots social movements and local communities, who seek to challenge or shape the dominant globalization agenda.
Radical flank effect
the way that more radical or extreme actions or positions taken by a social movement can help to shift the overall political climate and make more moderate demands or actions seem more acceptable or feasible.
Intersectionality
the way that multiple forms of oppression (such as racism, sexism, homophobia, or classism) intersect and reinforce one another, creating unique experiences of discrimination and marginalization.
Post-material values
values that are focused more on personal fulfillment, quality of life, and individual expression, rather than material needs such as food, shelter, or security.
Diag./Prog./Motivat. Frames
ways of framing issues or problems to guide collective action. Diagnostic frames identify the root cause of a problem, prognostic frames offer a vision of how to solve the problem, and motivational frames inspire people to take action.
