Page 1 - Lessonnote_ Social Movement

Class-XII

Chapter-15

Book-2

Social Movements

Lesson Notes

 Social movements have always shaped the world we live in and are continuing to do

so.
 Social movements not only change societies but they also inspire other social
movements.

Features of a social movement
 A social movement requires sustained collective action or continuous collective
action over time. Such action is often directed against the state and takes the form

of demanding changes in state policy or practice.
 A disorganised protest cannot be called a social movement.
 There has to be some degree of organisation in the collective action. This
organisation may include a leadership and a structure that defines how members
relate to each other, make decisions and carry them out.
 The participants have shared objectives and ideologies.
 A social movement has a way of approach to bring about a change.
 However, these features are not constant. They change over time.

 Social movements often arise with the aim of bringing about changes on a public
issue. For example, ensuring the right of the tribal population to use the forests or
the right of displaced people to settlement and compensation.
Counter Movement

 Counter movements sometimes arise in defence of status quo. There are many
instances of counter movements.
 When Raja Rammohun Roy campaigned against sati and formed the Brahmo Samaj,
defenders of sati formed Dharma Sabha and petitioned the British not to legislate
against sati.

 When reformers demanded education for girls, many protested that this would be
disastrous for society.