Book Description

Provides original assessments of the consequences of social movements.

We have all witnessed social movements and felt their effects—some subtle, others profound. But to truly understand their impact over time, in different countries, and on various segments of society requires the kind of rare insight this book provides. Bringing together several well-known scholars, this volume offers an assessment of the consequences of social movements in Western countries.

Policy, institutional, cultural, short- and long-term, and intended and unintended outcomes are among the types of consequences the authors consider in depth. They also compare political outcomes of several contemporary movements—specifically, women's, peace, ecology, and extreme-rights movements—in different countries.

Contributors: Edwin Amenta, Paul Burstein, Donatella della Porta, Joyce Gelb, Vivien Hart, Ruud Koopmans, Hanspeter Kriesi, David S. Meyer, Kelly Moore, Dieter Rucht, Paul Statham, Sidney Tarrow, Dominique Wisler, Michael P. Young.

Review

“The book provides a comprehensive overview of theoretical, methodological, and empirical work on outcomes, and moves forward by considering discourse and frames along with political opportunity structures. It is a must read for those who seek a more nuanced understanding of the variety of ways that movements contribute to social change. Beyond that, it provides a good overview of social movement theories and processes, and as such is worthwhile for course use.” -- Nancy Whittier, Contemporary Sociology

“How Social Movements Matter will be of broad interest to social movement scholars because the authors explore significant questions about the internal and external accounts of movement activism, historicize social action in various cultural contexts, and demonstrate the reliability and longevity of various forms of social change. Essential reading for those interested in pursuing outcomes measurement scholarship. Without question a necessary contribution, and a welcome addition to the field of social movement scholarship.” -- Mobilization