Power in Movement: Social Movements and Contentious Politics

Social movements have an elusive power but are real. Sidney Tarrow's fourth edition of this classic study emphasizes the symbiotic relations between social movements and parties, the role of populism, social media, structural changes in the economy, and new forms of contention.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Social movements possess an enigmatic yet undeniable power that has shaped the course of history. From the revolutionary upheavals of the French and American Revolutions to the Arab Spring, and the ongoing ethnic and terrorist movements of our time, contentious politics exerts a fleeting yet profound influence on politics, society, and international relations. In this comprehensive fourth edition, renowned scholar of politics and government Sidney Tarrow delves into the theory of social movements and political parties, drawing upon a wealth of recent, historical, and comparative case studies.

The book spans key episodes up to the attack on the US Capitol in January 2021, providing a comprehensive exploration of the dynamics of social movements and their impact on global politics. Tarrow employs a diverse range of case studies to introduce his theory, highlighting the symbiotic relations between social movements and political parties.

The fourth edition of this classic study emphasizes the growing role of populism in Europe, Latin America, and the United States, analyzing its impact on social movements and political dynamics. It also explores the role of social media as a powerful mobilizing and aggregating force for social movements, shedding light on the ways in which digital platforms have facilitated the growth and organization of these movements.

Furthermore, the book delves into the intricate relationships between structural changes in the economy and the emergence of new forms of contention. Tarrow examines how economic inequality, globalization, and technological advancements have shaped the landscape of social movements and contributed to their growing influence. He also draws upon new material on movements in the Global South, shedding light on the unique challenges and dynamics of social movements in different regions of the world.

In conclusion, The Power of Social Movements is a seminal work that offers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the power of social movements and their role in shaping global politics. By examining a range of historical and contemporary case studies, Tarrow provides a theoretical framework that helps us understand the complexities of social movements and their impact on society. This fourth edition is particularly relevant in the current political climate, as social movements continue to grow in prominence and exert a growing influence on political outcomes. Whether one is a scholar, activist, or simply interested in understanding the dynamics of contemporary politics, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the power of social movements.

Weight: 582g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009219846
Edition number: 4 Revised edition