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How do social movements and activism compare to traditional political movements?

Alaina Sutherden

Social movements and activism are a modern and dynamic form of political expression that is becoming increasingly popular around the world. These movements are differentiated from traditional political movements by their decentralized, grassroots nature, and their focus on social change through peaceful protest, civil disobedience, and the use of social media.

The traditional political movements that have been dominant in many parts of the world for the past century or more embody a more central and hierarchical structure, often led by political parties or charismatic individuals. These movements are structured around formal institutions such as parliaments and government agencies and seek to engage with these institutions through elections and other formal channels of power.

Social movements and activism, on the other hand, are more diffuse. They often emerge spontaneously, without a clear leader or formal organization, and mobilize millions of people through decentralized networks and the use of social media to highlight their cause. They are often focused on single-issue campaigns ranging from social justice, environmental protection, to support of human rights and more.

One key difference between social movements and activism and traditional political movements is in how they operate within society. Activism is often driven by people with specific grievances who feel that the political process has failed them or that their voices are not heard. Social movements, on the other hand, have a broader and more inclusive goal, centered around social change and equality. This makes it more challenging for these movements to achieve concrete goals and can require the mobilization of a larger group of people over a more extended period than traditional political movements.

Another key difference between these movements is the level of direct engagement by citizens with the political process. While traditional political movements mostly engage with citizens through elections, activism and social movements involve citizens in non-violent or non-electoral political action, such as the mobilization of protests, civil disobedience, and the use of social media to gain support for their causes.

Social movements and activism have made significant strides in shaping the political landscape in many parts of the world, often through significant moments of social and political change. Examples of such movements include the Civil Rights Movement in the United States in the 1960s, the anti-Apartheid movement in South Africa, the Arab Spring protests in the Middle East, and the recent "#MeToo" movements which used the hashtag on social media to bring awareness about sexual harassment around the globe.

In conclusion, social movements, and activism play a critical role in shaping the political landscape of today. They serve as an alternative to the traditional political movements by giving voice to those who have been left out of the formal political process, promoting social justice, upholding human rights and bringing about social change. While these movements are more challenging to achieve concrete outcomes, they aid in bringing long-lasting changes that lead to a more equitable and just society. Traditional political movements and social movements and activism both have their place in driving change in society, but it's essential to recognize the unique strengths and weaknesses of each movement and continue to create spaces for them to co-exist and collaborate for a better future.