A Social Psychology of Protest: Individuals in Action

Protest is rare behavior, but the first decade of the twenty-first century has been named the era of protest. Successful protests require demand, supply, and mobilization. Motivation to participate can be instrumental, expressive, and identity driven, and politicized collective identity plays an important role in the dynamics of collective action. This volume brings together insights from social psychology, political psychology, sociology, and political science to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of protest participation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Protest is a rare phenomenon, yet the first decade of the twenty-first century has been hailed as the era of protest. Successful protests often lead to large-scale gatherings of people on the streets, and the advent of social media has profoundly transformed the process of mobilization. The key ingredients for a successful protest include a compelling demand (grievances, anger, and indignation), organized protest organizations, and effective communication networks. Motivation to participate in protests can stem from various factors, including instrumental reasons, expressive motivations, and identity-driven desires. Moreover, politicized collective identity plays a significant role in the dynamics of collective action.

This volume brings together insights from social psychology, political psychology, sociology, and political science to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of protest participation, particularly focusing on the question of why some individuals choose to protest while others do not. It is an essential resource for scholars interested in the social and political psychology of individuals in action.

The emergence of social media has had a profound impact on the landscape of protest. It has facilitated the rapid spread of information and the organization of collective action on a global scale. Social media platforms have provided a space for individuals to express their grievances, share their experiences, and connect with others who share their beliefs. This has led to the formation of protest movements that span across borders and cultures, and have been able to mobilize large numbers of people in a short period of time.

One of the key factors that contribute to the success of protests is the presence of a compelling demand. When people feel that their voices are not being heard or that their rights are being violated, they are more likely to take to the streets in protest. Social media has played a crucial role in amplifying these demands and bringing them to the attention of a wider audience.

Another factor that contributes to the success of protests is the organization of protest organizations. These organizations are responsible for planning and coordinating protests, providing resources and support to participants, and raising awareness about the issue at hand. Social media has also facilitated the formation of these organizations, allowing individuals to connect and collaborate with others who share their interests.

Effective communication networks are also essential for the success of protests. These networks allow participants to share information, coordinate actions, and mobilize support. Social media has played a significant role in creating these networks, allowing individuals to connect with others who share their beliefs and values.

However, the success of protests is not without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the response of governments and authorities to protests. In many cases, governments have responded with violence, repression, and censorship, which can undermine the effectiveness of protests and deter people from participating.

Another challenge is the diversity of protest movements. Protest movements can be diverse in terms of their goals, tactics, and participants. This can make it difficult for protest organizations to coordinate actions and create a unified message.

Despite these challenges, protest continues to be a powerful tool for social change. It allows individuals to express their grievances, challenge authority, and demand accountability. Social media has played a crucial role in amplifying these voices and creating a sense of urgency and collective action.

In conclusion, the first decade of the twenty-first century has been characterized by a surge in protest activity. Successful protests have been able to mobilize large numbers of people and bring attention to important issues. The emergence of social media has fundamentally changed the process of mobilization, allowing individuals to express their grievances and connect with others who share their beliefs. The key ingredients for a successful protest include a compelling demand, organized protest organizations, and effective communication networks. Motivation to participate in protests can stem from various factors, including instrumental reasons, expressive motivations, and identity-driven desires. Politicized collective identity plays a significant role in the dynamics of collective action. Social psychology, political psychology, sociology, and political science have all contributed to our understanding of protest participation and the factors that influence it. This volume brings together insights from these disciplines to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of protest participation, particularly focusing on the question of why some people protest while others do not. It is an essential resource for scholars interested in the social and political psychology of individuals in action.

Weight: 470g
ISBN-13: 9781107178007