A social movement is a collective effort by a group of people who come together to promote or resist change in society. These movements are typically organized around a shared objective and aim to address issues related to social, political, or economic injustices. Social movements often arise in response to perceived inequalities or grievances and seek to bring about or prevent change through various forms of collective action, such as protests, advocacy, or lobbying.

Two Important Features of Social Movements

1. Sustained Collective Action

Social movements are characterized by sustained collective action, which means that they involve continuous, organized efforts by a group of people over an extended period. This feature distinguishes social movements from spontaneous or isolated acts of protest. Sustained collective action includes:

• Organizational Structure: Social movements often have some level of organization, which may include leadership, defined roles, and a structured approach to decision-making and implementation. This organizational structure helps in coordinating activities, mobilizing resources, and maintaining the momentum of the movement.
• Endurance: The longevity of social movements is a critical aspect. These movements persist over time, enduring through various phases such as mobilization, peak activity, and potential decline. The sustained nature of the movement allows it to build awareness, gather support, and exert continuous pressure on authorities or the public to address their demands.

Example: The Civil Rights Movement in the United States is an example of sustained collective action. Spanning over two decades, it involved continuous efforts such as marches, sit-ins, and legal challenges to combat racial segregation and discrimination.

2. Shared Objectives and Ideologies

A second important feature of social movements is the presence of shared objectives and ideologies among participants. These shared goals and beliefs provide a unifying framework for the movement, guiding its strategies and actions. This feature includes:

• Common Goals: Participants in a social movement typically unite around specific objectives, such as achieving policy changes, securing rights, or addressing social injustices. These common goals help to focus the movement's efforts and provide a clear direction for collective action.
• Ideological Unity: The ideology of a social movement encompasses the shared values, beliefs, and principles that motivate and justify the movement's activities. This ideological unity helps to foster a sense of solidarity and collective identity among participants, strengthening their commitment to the cause.

Example: The feminist movement, which aims to achieve gender equality and women's rights, exemplifies shared objectives and ideologies. Participants are united by common goals such as combating gender discrimination, advocating for reproductive rights, and promoting equal opportunities in various spheres of life.

Conclusion

Social movements play a crucial role in shaping societal changes by addressing injustices and advocating for reforms. The features of sustained collective action and shared objectives and ideologies are essential for the success and longevity of these movements. These characteristics enable social movements to mobilize support, maintain momentum, and effectively pursue their goals, ultimately contributing to transformative changes in society.