Social Movements is a chapter in the CBSE Class 12 Sociology syllabus from Social Change and Development in India. This chapter hub brings together revision notes, practice questions, worksheets, flashcards to help students learn, practice, and revise Social Movements effectively.

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Social Movements

NCERT Class 12 Sociology Chapter 8: Social Movements (Pages 109–128)

Class 12 CBSE hub Sociology chapters Social Change and Development in India

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Summary of Social Movements

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Social Movements at a Glance

Board

CBSE

Class

Class 12

Subject

Sociology

Book

Social Change and Development in India

Chapter

Pages

109–128

Resources

6 study resources

Social Movements Summary

Social movements have been crucial in shaping rights and societal norms throughout history. Many of the rights and privileges we enjoy today, such as the eight-hour workday and equal pay, are the results of extensive struggles led by various social movements. This chapter reflects on these movements, from the 19th century social reform movements addressing caste and gender inequalities to the nationalist struggle for independence. It recounts the efforts of workers and activists worldwide, such as the civil rights movement in the United States and anti-apartheid movements in South Africa, emphasizing how these movements collectively inspire one another. Students also learn the essential characteristics of social movements, such as organization, shared goals, leadership, and collective action, which demand change in social or state policies. Social movements respond to public issues and can invoke counter movements that aim to preserve the existing order. The chapter discusses the various types of social movements, including reformist, revolutionary, and redemptive movements, and how movements evolve over time. It highlights significant historical movements, like Chartism in England and the Chipko Movement for environmental conservation, showing how they lead to broader awareness of social issues. Furthermore, the concept of new versus old social movements is introduced, emphasizing the shift from class-based to more diverse, identity-focused movements in contemporary society. This divergence includes ecological concerns, women’s rights, and caste-based activism. The chapter concludes by reaffirming the ongoing relevance of social movements in advocating for justice and equality within society and invites students to reflect on their contributions and the role of collective action in bringing about social change.

Social Movements Revision Guide

Download the Social Movements revision guide with key points, summaries, and quick revision notes for CBSE Class 12 Sociology.

Key Points

Social movements drive social change.

They are collective efforts aimed at promoting or resisting social change, shaping societal norms.

Key features of social movements.

They require sustained collective action, organization, shared objectives, and ideologies aimed at specific societal changes.

Differences between social change and social movements.

Social change is ongoing; movements are targeted efforts to accomplish specific goals, like reforms.

Types of social movements: Redemptive.

Aim for personal transformation, e.g., Narayana Guru's influence in the Ezhava community.

Types of social movements: Reformist.

Seek gradual change in political/social norms, e.g., Right to Information campaign.

Types of social movements: Revolutionary.

Aim for complete societal overhaul, e.g., Russian Bolshevik revolution and Naxalite movement.

Women’s movement history.

Emerging from 19th century reform movements, it focuses on gender equality and social issues like violence against women.

Dalit movement significance.

Focuses on abolishing caste discrimination and promoting Dalit identity; varies in approach and ideology.

Chipko Movement example.

An ecological protest against deforestation, emphasizing the link between livelihoods and environmental health.

Understanding identity politics.

Social movements often center around identity factors such as caste, gender, or ethnicity, affecting collective actions.

Globalization’s impact on social movements.

New forms of movements emerge internationally, working across borders to address transnational issues.

The role of technology in movements.

Social media facilitates mobilization and in forming networks, as seen in various global protests.

Counter movements defined.

These work against the objectives of a social movement, often to maintain traditional cultural/body norms.

The impact of peasant movements.

These have historically focused on agrarian rights and have transformed agricultural policies in India.

Farmers' movements: New vs. Old.

Modern movements address market rights and include diverse participants beyond just traditional farmers.

Satyagraha as a method.

Gandhian philosophy of non-violent resistance, combining civil disobedience with moral principles in protests.

Movements leading to policy change.

Successful movements often influence public policy or lead to legal reforms, as seen in women’s rights activism.

Caste-based mobilization.

Backward caste movements emerged for political representation and identity, transforming electoral politics.

Ecological movements and capitalism.

They raise awareness about environmental exploitation, linking economic policies with ecological degradation.

Importance of leadership in movements.

Strong leaders are pivotal in organizing, mobilizing participants, and articulating movement goals effectively.

Remember famous historical movements.

Campaigns like the Civil Rights Movement and Anti-Apartheid struggles highlight the power of collective action.

Social Movements Practice Questions & Answers

Practice important questions and exam-style problems from Social Movements. These questions cover key topics from the CBSE Class 12 Sociology syllabus.

How to practice: Start with the questions below to test your understanding of Social Movements. Use the revision guide to review concepts you find difficult, then come back and retry the questions for better retention.

What type of social movement aims to change personal consciousness and actions of its members?

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Which of the following is an example of a reformist social movement?

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What primary goal do revolutionary social movements pursue?

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Which statement best describes the nature of social movements?

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What defines a redemptive movement?

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The Naxalite movement in India is classified as what type of social movement?

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Which social movement is associated with changing societal norms rather than political structures?

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What is a significant characteristic of old social movements?

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What is a key difference between old and new social movements?

What particular issue does the New Social Movements typically focus on?

The term 'civil society' encompasses which of the following?

In what context was the term 'mutiny' applied differently by British colonial rulers and Indian nationalists?

Which statement reflects a characteristic of reformist movements?

A social movement that starts with revolutionary objectives but later adopts reformist strategies is exhibiting what phenomenon?

What is a primary feature of a social movement?

How does leadership play a role in social movements?

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of social movements?

What typically motivates the formation of a social movement?

Which mode of protest is commonly associated with social movements?

Social movements often require a specific ideological perspective. Which of the following best describes this?

Counter movements often arise in response to social movements. What is a common reason for this?

What role do shared objectives play in the effectiveness of a social movement?

What is the impact of counter movements on social change?

In which social movement did Mahatma Gandhi use non-violent protest as a key strategy?

Social movements can influence public policy. What is one way they achieve this?

Why might social movements change their strategies over time?

What is a common misconception about social movements?

What makes a social movement different from a mere collective protest?

Which of the following strategies may signify an innovative mode of protest in social movements?

What was the主要 aim of the Champaran Satyagraha in 1917-18?

Which peasant movement sought two-thirds share of produce for sharecroppers?

Which organization was founded first in the peasant movement of India?

Which event is linked to Mahatma Gandhi's involvement in peasant movements?

The Deccan Riots of 1857 were primarily targeted against which group?

Which factor differentiates farmers from peasants in the context of India?

What was a significant characteristic of new farmers' movements starting in the 1970s?

Which of the following movements involved armed peasants forming their committees?

What was the general pattern of early labor protests in India during colonialism?

What is a primary characteristic of redemptive social movements?

Which of the following movements emerged in response to forest policies of the British government?

Which of the following is an example of a reformist social movement?

What led to the formation of the All India Kisan Sabha in 1936?

According to sociologists, how are social movements perceived by elites?

In which state did new farmers' movements initiate in the 1970s, focusing on anti-state ideology?

Which of the following movements aimed to abolish the Tsar's rule in Russia?

The Tebhaga Movement primarily involved which socio-economic issue?

How can the categorization of social movements change over time?

What key aspect connected peasant movements with the independence movement?

Which scholar emphasized the moral economy of social movements?

What characterized the structure of early trade unions in India?

What does the term 'old social movements' commonly refer to?

What misconception often arises regarding the direct outcomes of peasant movements?

What is a defining feature of revolutionary social movements?

Which statement best describes the relationship between social movements and social change?

What aspect of social movements did Karl Marx focus on?

How did the British colonial powers view the 1857 uprising in India?

What distinguishes new social movements from older ones?

What term refers to a gradual shift toward more organized forms of social movements?

Which social movement focused on reprioritizing social relations during the Industrial Revolution?

What crucial role do social movements serve in society?

What was the primary goal of the Chipko Movement?

Which group predominantly took part in the Chipko Movement?

The Chipko Movement highlighted the conflict between which two economies?

What significant environmental event in 1970 prompted awareness of ecological issues in the region?

Who was Gaura Devi in the context of the Chipko Movement?

The Chipko Movement is an example of which type of social movement?

Which organization supported the Chipko Movement?

What was one result of the Chipko Movement?

The Chipko Movement began in which geographical region of India?

What is one method used by activists during the Chipko Movement?

How did the Chipko Movement address issues beyond environmental concerns?

What ideological perspective did the Chipko Movement largely embody?

Post-Chipko Movement, what governmental initiative aimed at ecological conservation was launched?

Ecological movements like Chipko typically arise in response to what?

What critical perspective did the Chipko Movement challenge regarding development?

What does the term 'Dalit' primarily refer to?

Which movement is primarily associated with Dalit socio-political mobilization in Maharashtra?

What is a common characteristic of various Dalit movements across India?

Which movement is known for its profound impact on the Dalit identity and awareness?

What was a major goal of the anti-caste movements initiated by Jotiba Phule and Dr. Ambedkar?

What does the Dalit struggle often aim for beyond economic inequalities?

The term 'Backward classes' refers to which significant aspect in the context of social movements?

Which is an example of a movement emphasizing cultural struggle among Dalits?

The notion of 'untouchability' in Dalit movements primarily refers to what?

Which movement is focused on the socio-political mobilization among the Jatavas?

What aspect defines the post-Ambedkar Dalit movement?

Which of the following is a consequence of the Dalit movement's reliance on education?

What can be seen as a limitation of the Dalit movement in terms of societal change?

How did colonial rule influence caste-based movements?

Which movement is notable for revealing the cultural and socio-political dimensions of the Dalit condition?

Who was a prominent leader of the tribal movement in Jharkhand?

What common issue do tribal movements across India often address?

Which region in India is primarily associated with significant tribal movements?

What led to the formation of Jharkhand as a separate state?

Birsa Munda's legacy is largely kept alive through what means?

What is a significant factor in the rise of ethnic consciousness in tribal movements?

Which tribe is primarily associated with the Chota Nagpur region?

What ecological issue is central to the tribal movements?

What form of resistance did tribal groups in Jharkhand show against government actions?

What was a major grievance of the adivasis against the dikus?

What shift has occurred in the North East tribal movements post-independence?

What kind of identity is primarily sought through tribal movements?

What was a consequence of Christian missionaries in the Jharkhand region?

Which issue did the tribal leaders in Jharkhand protest against regarding forest produce?

How did tribal movements in India change over time?

What was the primary focus of the early women's organizations in India such as the Women's India Association?

Which event is recognized as a significant turning point for ecological awareness that informed subsequent social movements, including the women's movement?

What characterizes the second phase of the Indian women's movement in the mid-1970s?

Which of the following statements about the Women's Movement in India is true?

The All India Women's Conference (AIWC) initially believed that women's welfare and politics were:

In which decade did the renewed interest in the Women’s Movement in India take place?

Which women's organization was founded in 1925 focused on advocating for women's rights in India?

What was one significant change that the Women's Movement campaigned for in relation to education?

What term describes the acknowledgment that women from various socio-economic backgrounds face different types of discrimination?

Which of the following best describes one of the aims of the Women's Movement in India?

The women's movement is considered an example of which type of social movement?

What was the primary contribution of the Chipko Movement to ecological awareness?

Which of the following strategies is often associated with women's movements to address legal issues?

In the context of the Women's Movement, what does the term 'gender-just society' imply?

What significant campaign did the Government of India launch to promote gender equity?

Single Answer MCQ

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Social Movements Practice Worksheets

Download and practice Social Movements worksheets to improve problem-solving accuracy and speed for CBSE Class 12 Sociology exams.

Social Movements - Practice Worksheet

This worksheet covers essential long-answer questions to help you build confidence in Social Movements from Social Change and Development in India for Class 12 (Sociology).

Practice

Questions

What defines a social movement, and how does it differ from other forms of collective action?

A social movement is a collective effort by a group of people aimed at bringing about social change. It is characterized by sustained collective action, shared objectives, and some degree of organization. Unlike spontaneous protests, social movements are structured and aim for specific changes in policy or societal norms. Examples include movements for civil rights or environmental protection.

Discuss the role of leadership in social movements with examples.

Leadership is crucial for guiding and organizing a social movement. Leaders provide direction, create strategies, and can mobilize resources. For instance, Mahatma Gandhi's leadership in the Indian independence movement significantly influenced its direction and success. Similarly, leaders in civil rights movements have shaped their causes.

How do social movements contribute to social change? Provide historical examples.

Social movements have historically played a critical role in instigating social change by challenging existing norms and practices. For example, the abolition movement led to the end of slavery, while women’s suffrage movements secured voting rights for women. In India, movements against caste discrimination have pushed for social justice and equality.

Explain the concept of counter-movements and provide examples.

Counter-movements are organized efforts to resist social changes advocated by other movements. They often aim to preserve the status quo. For example, the resistance against the abolition of sati or the backlash against women's educational rights illustrate counter-movements trying to maintain traditional values.

Compare and contrast old social movements with new social movements.

Old social movements, such as labor movements, primarily focused on economic rights and political representation. In contrast, new social movements address a variety of issues, including identity politics, environmental concerns, and quality of life. For instance, the feminist movement has evolved to include diverse issues beyond just suffrage, such as gender equality and sexual rights.

Discuss the importance of ideology in shaping social movements.

Ideology provides the foundational beliefs and values that motivate participants in a social movement. It can unify individuals under a common cause. For example, the ideology behind the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa revolved around human rights and equality, influencing global perceptions and support for the movement.

Analyze the impact of globalization on social movements.

Globalization has affected social movements by facilitating communication and collaboration across borders. It allows movements to gain international attention and support. For example, environmental movements have become global, addressing issues that transcend national boundaries and linking local struggles with global advocacy.

What role do social movements play in democracy?

Social movements are vital for democracy as they allow citizens to express dissatisfaction and advocate for change. They enhance political participation and accountability. Movements such as the civil rights movement in the United States have highlighted injustices and pushed for legislative reforms, strengthening democratic values.

Evaluate the effectiveness of social movements in achieving their goals.

The effectiveness of social movements can vary widely; some achieve immediate policy changes, while others may take years to effect change or may not achieve their goals at all. The success of the women’s rights movement in gaining legal reforms is an example of effectiveness, while the ongoing struggles for caste equity illustrate challenges.

Define ecological movements and discuss their significance.

Ecological movements aim to address environmental issues and advocate for sustainable practices. They have gained significance in the face of climate change and degradation. The Chipko movement in India, which involves hugging trees to prevent logging, is a notable example of how local activism can bring global awareness to environmental concerns.

Social Movements - Mastery Worksheet

This worksheet challenges you with deeper, multi-concept long-answer questions from Social Movements to prepare for higher-weightage questions in Class 12.

Mastery

Questions

Discuss the characteristics that define a social movement and illustrate your answer with two distinct examples from Indian history.

Social movements exhibit sustained collective action, organized structure, shared objectives, and often mobilize participants for change. Examples: 1) The Indian National Movement aimed at ending colonial rule. 2) The Chipko Movement focused on environmental conservation. Both movements demonstrate organization, collective identity, and goal-oriented strategies.

Compare and contrast the peasant movements before and after India’s independence, focusing on their objectives and methods.

Before independence, movements like the Bardoli and Champaran Satyagraha aimed at agrarian rights and were often tied to anti-colonial sentiment. Post-independence movements shifted towards market-related issues and were characterized by non-party organization and novel protest strategies. Both aimed at economic justice but differed in political alignment and focus areas.

Evaluate the impact of the women’s movement in India since the 19th century on societal norms and policies.

The women’s movement has significantly influenced societal norms regarding gender equality, leading to legal reforms like the Dowry Prohibition Act and increased women's representation. Over decades, it has also reshaped public perception of gender roles, promoting women's rights in various socio-economic domains.

Analyze the relationship between ecological movements and economic issues, using the Chipko Movement as a case study.

The Chipko Movement highlights the intersection of ecological sustainability and economic rights, as villagers protested against deforestation threatening their livelihoods. This movement exemplifies how environmental issues are often tied to economic interests and social justice, advocating for both ecological conservation and community well-being.

Assess the role of identity politics in the formation of new social movements in India, particularly among Dalit and tribal communities.

Identity politics has been crucial in mobilizing Dalit and tribal communities, fostering a shared sense of identity and grievance against systemic oppression. Movements like the Dalit Panther Movement and tribal rights activism have emphasized cultural pride and rights to land and resources, leading to significant political mobilization and advocacy.

Identify and discuss two major counter movements that emerged in response to social movements in India, and analyze their implications.

Counter movements such as the anti-reservation protests and campaigns against women's rights reforms emerged as reactions to demands for social justice. These movements often aim to protect existing social hierarchies and highlight conflicts over resource allocation, reflecting deep-seated societal tensions.

Examine the transformation of social movements from the colonial era to the present era in India. How have their goals changed?

Colonial-era movements primarily focused on independence and anti-colonial sentiments. In contrast, contemporary movements often address issues like environmental sustainability, gender rights, and economic justice. This transformation reflects broader socio-political changes and a diversification of activism addressing a range of societal issues.

Discuss the role of social media and technology in modern social movements in India and how it has altered traditional protest methods.

Social media has revolutionized modern social movements in India by facilitating rapid mobilization, awareness, and global solidarity. For instance, movements like #MeToo leveraged technology for outreach, altering traditional protest dynamics by incorporating online activism alongside physical demonstrations.

What are the similarities and differences between reformist and revolutionary social movements in the context of India? Support your answer with examples.

Reformist movements seek gradual change within the existing system (e.g., the Right to Information movement), while revolutionary movements aim for dramatic systemic overhaul (e.g., Naxalite movement). Both seek social justice but diverge in their methods and desired outcomes.

Social Movements - Challenge Worksheet

The final worksheet presents challenging long-answer questions that test your depth of understanding and exam-readiness for Social Movements in Class 12.

Challenge

Questions

Discuss the role of social movements in shaping contemporary Indian society. How do these movements influence public policy and social norms?

Analyze the historical context of social movements, integrating examples from the nationalist movements, women's rights movements, and environmental activism. Consider counter movements and their effect on established norms.

Evaluate the effectiveness of the Chipko Movement as an ecological movement. What were its strategies, and how did it challenge the existing norms of development?

Critically assess how the Chipko Movement's grassroots organization and its emphasis on local needs redefined environmental activism in India. Highlight its relation to national and global ecological issues.

Compare and contrast the old and new social movements in India. In what ways have the objectives and strategies evolved?

Discuss the defining characteristics of each type, citing specific movements such as the workers' movement, women's movement, and newer environmental or caste-based movements. Analyze the impact of globalization and digital media.

Analyze the consequences of caste-based movements on India's socio-political landscape. How do these movements reshape public discourse around caste?

Examine the significance of movements like the Dalit Movement and the anti-caste activism in redefining caste identities and their implications for policy-making. Discuss intersectionality with other social movements.

Critically assess the statement: 'Social movements are necessary for democratic health in a society.' Use examples from both current and historical movements.

Explore the connection between social movements and democracy, citing examples such as the anti-corruption movement and the women's rights movement. Discuss counterpoints regarding authority and stability.

Reflect on the relationship between economic development and social movements. How are economic rights and social justice interconnected?

Discuss historical and contemporary movements that advocate for workers’ rights and economic equity, considering movements like labor unions and peasant uprisings. Analyze how economic policies influence social mobilization.

Evaluate the ideological underpinnings of gender movements in India. How do they address issues specific to various classes of women?

Dissect the different waves and strands of feminism in India, relating them to class, caste, and rural-urban divides. Provide examples from movements like the anti-dowry and rights to education campaigns.

Investigate the influence of digital platforms on social movements in India today. How have technology and social media transformed advocacy and participation?

Analyze case studies where social media has played a pivotal role in organizing protests and raising awareness, such as the Nirbhaya case or farmers' protests. Discuss the benefits and challenges posed by digital advocacy.

Discuss the role of international movements in influencing local social movements in India. Can outside influences undermine or strengthen local efforts?

Examine how global movements, such as climate change activism and human rights campaigns, impact local activism in India. Evaluate both empowering and detracting influences.

Social Movements Frequently Asked Questions

Explore the critical impact of social movements in shaping society, focusing on historical contexts, types, and key examples including labor rights and ecological movements.

QWhat are the main features of a social movement?

A social movement typically involves sustained collective action aimed at bringing about social change. Key features include a structured organization, shared objectives and ideologies among participants, and a commitment over time to achieve specific goals, often challenging existing policies or societal norms.

QHow did social movements influence labor rights?

Social movements played a crucial role in advocating for labor rights by organizing protests and campaigns that aimed to improve working conditions, secure fair wages, and establish legal frameworks for workers' rights, as exemplified by the eight-hour workday movement.

QWhat is the significance of the right to vote in social movements?

The right to vote is a fundamental achievement of social movements, representing a radical shift from colonial rule to democratic governance. Movements advocating for voting rights, like Chartism in Britain, emphasized the need for universal suffrage and political representation for all citizens.

QWhat types of social movements are discussed in the chapter?

The chapter categorizes social movements into several types: reformist (seeking gradual change), redemptive (focused on personal transformation), and revolutionary (aiming for radical change in society). Each type has distinct goals and methods of mobilization.

QWhat is the Chipko Movement and its relevance?

The Chipko Movement, which emerged in India, highlights the link between environmental conservation and social justice. Villagers, particularly women, protested against deforestation by hugging trees, emphasizing the importance of preserving forests for their livelihoods and ecological balance.

QWhat role did the Indian national movement play in social change?

The Indian national movement significantly influenced social change by promoting rights and freedoms that would later be enshrined in the Indian Constitution, shaping the nation's approach to social justice and equality.

QHow do counter-movements function in relation to social movements?

Counter-movements arise as responses to social movements, often aiming to maintain existing social norms or resist changes that threaten the status quo. They can challenge the legitimacy of issues raised by progressive movements, leading to social conflict.

QWhat are ecological movements?

Ecological movements are social movements that advocate for environmental protection and sustainable practices. They often emerge in response to environmental degradation and promote awareness of ecological issues intersecting with social justice.

QWhat challenges do Dalit movements face?

Dalit movements struggle against the deep-rooted caste system and social stigma of untouchability. Despite some progress, they encounter challenges such as economic inequality, political marginalization, and resistance from dominant caste groups.

QHow did women's movements evolve in India?

Women's movements in India evolved from early social reform efforts in the 19th century to organized advocacy for rights and empowerment in the 20th century. They have addressed issues like violence against women, dowry, and gender equality, leading to significant legislative changes.

QWhat is the role of identity politics in social movements?

Identity politics plays a crucial role in social movements by mobilizing individuals around shared experiences of marginalization based on race, gender, ethnicity, or class, fostering solidarity and collective action to challenge discrimination.

QHow can social movements lead to social change?

Social movements can lead to change by raising awareness, influencing public opinion, and pressuring political leaders to enact reforms. Their sustained activism can shift societal norms and increase participation in democratic processes.

QWhat historical context influenced the emergence of peasant movements?

Peasant movements in India emerged historically as a response to oppressive land policies, colonial exploitation, and economic grievances. They aimed to secure land rights, fair wages, and improved living conditions for agrarian communities.

QWhat is the relationship between globalization and social movements?

Globalization has influenced social movements by providing a platform for international networking and collaboration, which helps local issues gain global visibility. This interconnectedness can amplify the impact of movements on a larger scale.

QWhat strategies do social movements employ to mobilize support?

Social movements employ various strategies, including organizing protests, conducting awareness campaigns, forming alliances with NGOs and community organizations, and leveraging social media to reach a broader audience.

QWhat challenges do new social movements face compared to older ones?

New social movements often face unique challenges such as a lack of political representation, greater bureaucratic hurdles, and the need to adapt rapidly to changing social and technological landscapes, differing from the more centralized structures of older movements.

QWhat impact did the suffragette movement have on women’s rights?

The suffragette movement was pivotal in securing women's right to vote, which marked a significant step toward gender equality. It galvanized efforts to address various issues facing women, thereby laying the groundwork for subsequent feminist movements.

QHow do cultural elements factor into social movements?

Cultural elements significantly shape social movements by influencing their narratives, symbols, and methods of protest. Movements often draw from cultural practices to foster a sense of identity and solidarity among participants.

QWhat was the significance of the agricultural movements in post-colonial India?

Agricultural movements in post-colonial India aimed to address the exploitation of farmers and improve agricultural policy. They sought to secure land rights, better prices for crops, and social and economic justice for rural communities.

QWhat are the main objectives of reformist social movements?

Reformist social movements seek to bring about gradual changes within the existing social and political framework, advocating for policy reforms, legal changes, and improvements in various social services without a complete overhaul of the system.

QHow do social movements promote awareness of human rights?

Social movements promote awareness of human rights by educating the public, organizing campaigns, and pressuring governments to adopt and enforce human rights laws, thereby creating a more informed and engaged citizenry.

QWhat future trends do you predict for social movements?

Future trends in social movements may include increased use of technology for mobilization, greater focus on intersectionality, and collaboration across borders to address global issues like climate change, inequality, and human rights.

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Social Movements Flashcards

Revise key terms and definitions from Social Movements with interactive flashcards. Quick recall practice for CBSE Class 12 Sociology.

These flash cards cover important concepts from Social Movements in Social Change and Development in India for Class 12 (Sociology).

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What defines a social movement?

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A social movement is a collective effort by a group of people to achieve social or political change, characterized by organized actions over time.

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2/19

What are the key features of a social movement?

2/19

Key features include sustained collective action, organization, shared objectives, and the intention to bring about societal change.

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3/19

Difference between spontaneous protest and social movements?

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Spontaneous protests lack organization and long-term goals, while social movements are structured and aim for sustained change.

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4/19

What is an example of a historical social movement?

4/19

The Indian National Movement aimed to achieve independence from British colonial rule, representing a significant social movement.

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What is a reformist social movement?

5/19

Reformist movements seek gradual change to existing structures, such as the Right to Information campaign in India.

6/19

Define 'counter movement'.

6/19

Counter movements arise in opposition to social movements, aiming to defend the status quo against proposed changes.

7/19

What is the Chipko Movement?

7/19

An ecological movement in India where villagers, particularly women, hugged trees to prevent logging, highlighting the conflict between economic profit and environmental sustainability.

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What role does leadership play in social movements?

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Leadership provides direction and organization, helping to mobilize participants around shared objectives.

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What are redemptive social movements?

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These movements aim to transform individual behaviors and consciousness, exemplified by the Ezhava community's reforms in Kerala.

10/19

Why study social movements in sociology?

10/19

Social movements provide insights into societal changes, conflicts, and the dynamics of power, reflecting the social order.

11/19

Explain the term 'moral economy' in the context of social movements.

11/19

Moral economy refers to the shared values and norms within a community that justify their actions during protests and movements.

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What is an example of a revolutionary social movement?

12/19

The Bolshevik Revolution aimed at overthrowing the Tsarist regime in Russia to create a communist state.

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Importance of collective action in social movements?

13/19

Collective action unites individuals to amplify their voice and increase the impact of their demands for change.

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What impact can social movements have on legislation?

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Social movements can lead to significant policy changes and new laws that reflect the interests and rights of the movements' constituents.

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How do social movements use media?

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They engage with media to raise awareness, mobilize support, and influence public opinion regarding their causes.

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What did Gandhi's methods of protest include?

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Gandhi employed non-violent methods such as ahimsa, satyagraha, and civil disobedience to advocate for independence.

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What is meant by 'social movement organizations'?

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These are structured groups that emerge from social movements, aimed at sustaining efforts for change and implementing strategies effectively.

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Example of social movements leading to ecological awareness?

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The Chipko Movement raised awareness about deforestation and the need for sustainable environmental practices.

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What challenges do social movements face?

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Social movements often encounter resistance from established interests and may face suppression or backlash from authorities.

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