What is a 'social movement'?

A 'social movement' is defined as a collective effort by a group of people to bring about social change. This definition captures the essence of social movements, which typically involve organized activities aimed at promoting or resisting change in societal norms, values, or policies. Social movements rely on the participation and solidarity of individuals who share a common interest or goal, and they often mobilize resources, raise awareness, and seek to influence public opinion or policy makers.

The emphasis on collective effort is crucial because social movements are distinctly different from actions taken by individuals or single organizations. Unlike a political action led by one organization, social movements are broad-based and may include diverse strategies and participants from various backgrounds. Similarly, while some individuals may engage in initiatives for personal improvement, these actions do not constitute a social movement unless they are linked to broader societal goals. Lastly, a financial strategy for community development focuses primarily on economic aspects rather than the sociological dimensions of collective action and social change that define social movements.