Freedom in Contention: Social Movements and Liberal Political Economy

Social movements have been a powerful force for change, promoting political democratization, economic freedom, and social equality. This book explores how social movements operate within the framework of liberal political economy, highlighting the choices and actions that can promote freedom, equality, and dignity. Drawing on historical and contemporary case studies, it demonstrates how social movement activists work to challenge public power and other forms of authority, shaping advances in human liberty.

Format: Hardback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2021
Publisher: Lexington Books

Social movements have played a pivotal role in shaping long-term societal transformations, leading to significant advancements in political democratization, economic freedom, and social equality. In recent years, movements like Occupy Wall Street, the Arab Spring, and Black Lives Matter have emerged as powerful platforms for organizing protests and other contentious activities against various forms of injustice worldwide. However, understanding the nature, dynamics, and impacts of social movements remains a crucial challenge.

In this groundbreaking contribution, social movement activities and outcomes are analyzed through the lens of liberal political economy. This approach emphasizes the dynamic choices made by collective actors within complex economic, political, and social environments, highlighting the potential for these choices to promote freedom, equality, and dignity. Drawing inspiration from the works of Friedrich Hayek, Elinor and Vincent Ostrom, and James Buchanan, Freedom in Contention offers a comprehensive exploration of how social movements organize and operate in often repressive contexts, bringing people together in their pursuit of audacious challenges to public power and other forms of authority.

Through the use of historical and contemporary case studies, this book sheds light on how advances in human liberty are shaped by the struggles of social movement activists to have their concerns heard and respected. It demonstrates how social movements act as agents of change, mobilizing individuals and communities to advocate for their rights and interests and to push for systemic transformations. By examining the strategies, tactics, and outcomes of social movements, Freedom in Contention provides valuable insights for social scientists, decision-makers, and anyone interested in understanding the profound impact of social movements on our lives.

In conclusion, social movements have been instrumental in driving societal transformations and advancing human rights. By examining their nature, dynamics, and impacts through the lens of liberal political economy, Freedom in Contention offers a comprehensive understanding of how these movements have shaped our world and provides valuable insights for those seeking to promote social justice and equality.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 239 x 161 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793627667