Time Schedule:
David Pettinicchio
SOC 247
Seattle Campus
Introduction to theory and research on national-level collective mobilizations organized for political change. Emphasis on how political, organizational, and cultural factors shape social movement emergence and development, and individual participation.
Class description
This course is designed to provide an introduction and survey of current theoretical and empirical questions in the study of social movements and collective action. The course is divided into three parts. We first begin with classical opinions about participation in collective action and transition to more current explanations as to the reasons individuals participate in social movements. The second part of the course introduces theoretical and empirical questions about the nature of organizations within social movements. Students will become familiar with the dominant resource mobilization perspective in social movements, as well as criticisms of the perspective and alternative explanations. Finally, we conclude the course with discussions of the role of structural or contextual factors on social movements and collective action. Here, students will be introduced to the political process model in social movements, as well as questions and concerns about how movements work in conjunction with other political variables to bring about social change.
Student learning goals
Learn main theories in social movements
Be able to critique theories
Apply movement research to contemporary movements
General method of instruction
Three exams, final exam is take-home
Recommended preparation
SOC 110 but not required
Class assignments and grading
