The Explanatory Value of Social Movement Theory

Abstract

This article argues that SMT does indeed provide a strong conceptual framework. SMT uses established comparative political theories and methodologies in an integrated, multidimensional framework which takes into account the fluid and complex dynamics that a movement operates in. SMT draws upon processes and mechanisms from rational-choice, structural, and cultural comparative political theories which enable a stronger explanatory value of understanding actions and outcomes. The article provides a big-picture overview of SMT and its current research areas. Examples from the first Palestinian Intifada will be used to illustrate the key SMT factors of political opportunity, resource mobilization, and framing. Lastly, the article uses SMT's strong explanatory value to address potential policy implications.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 2005
Accession Number
ADA521540

Entities

People

  • Jennifer Chandler

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Agreements
  • California
  • Complex Systems
  • Dynamics
  • Education
  • Governments
  • Health Care
  • Middle East
  • National Security
  • Political Theory
  • Security
  • Social Sciences
  • Societies
  • Students
  • Terrorists
  • United States
  • Violence

Fields of Study

  • Political science

Readers

  • Computational Modeling and Simulation
  • Materials Science.
  • Political Violence and Terrorism Studies.