SOCIAL MOVEMENTS AND POLITICAL CHANGE: EXAMINING THE ROLE OF COLLECTIVE ACTION IN SHAPING POLITICAL LANDSCAPES AND SOCIETAL NORMS

Abstract

Social movements have historically played a pivotal role in shaping political landscapes and societal norms, functioning as agents of change that challenge existing systems of power and inequality. This article examines the dynamic relationship between collective action and political change, focusing on the strategies, ideologies, and outcomes of social movements. The study emphasizes the processes through which grassroots mobilization influences state policies, societal values, and the empowerment of marginalized groups. By analyzing historical and contemporary case studies from various global and local contexts, the article highlights how social movements, including protests, advocacy campaigns, and revolutions, have contributed to shifts in governance, human rights, and social justice. The role of digital media in facilitating these movements is also discussed, reflecting on how technology has altered the methods of mobilization and engagement. This work contributes to understanding the multifaceted impact of collective action on the political and societal fabric.