Social Movements - Class 12 Sociology - Chapter 8 - Notes, NCERT Solutions & Extra Questions
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Extra Questions - Social Movements | Social Change and Development in India | Sociology | Class 12
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Imagine a society where there has been no social movement. Discuss. You can also describe how you imagine such a society to be.
A society without social movements would likely be static, with little change in social norms, laws, or power structures. Such a society might exhibit rigid hierarchies and entrenched inequalities, as there would be reduced mechanisms for marginalized groups to advocate for rights or reforms. Innovation and social progress would be slow, potentially leading to widespread discontent and frustration among those affected by outdated or unjust policies. Overall, it could be characterized by a lack of diversity in thought and action, leading to a uniform culture with limited freedom for individual expression and change.
Write short notes on:
-- Women’s Movement
-- Tribal Movements
Women’s Movement
The Women's Movement in India has evolved over the years from focusing primarily on social reform in the 19th century (such as education and abolition of sati) to taking on a broader spectrum of issues. Post-independence, the movement saw shifts in organizational strategies and ideological foci, with greater emphasis on addressing violence against discrimination, legal reforms, and socio-economic rights. It recognized the differentiated needs of women based on class, caste, and rural-urban divisions while also advocating for a gender-just society. Major campaigns have included rights against sexual harassment, dowry, and for employment and property rights.
Tribal Movements
Tribal Movements in India often revolve around issues like alienation from land, cultural identity, and economic exploitation. Prominent among these is the movement for Jharkhand, led historically by figures like Birsa Munda. The movement sought to address injustices meted out by non-tribal settlers and moneylenders (dikus), and the exploitation by industrial and mining projects in tribal regions. Modern tribal movements often intertwine goals of cultural autonomy with ecological conservation, reflecting the deep connection of tribal communities with their land and natural resources, further emphasizing issues like land rights and resistance against displacement.
In India it is difficult to make a clear distinction between the old and new social movements. Discuss.
In India, distinguishing between old and new social movements is challenging due to overlapping issues and the blending of approaches. Old social movements, typically focused on reorganizing power relations (as seen in class-based political actions like the Indian National Congress leading the independence movement), were often aligned with political parties and centered on economic inequalities and labor rights. New social movements, however, tend to address quality-of-life issues such as environmental protection, and are characterized by decentralization, embracing non-governmental organizations and focusing on identity politics and cultural anxieties. Despite their differences, many movements transcend the classic definitions, blending elements of both old and new by addressing economic, cultural, and political issues simultaneously, making the distinction unclear.
Environmental movements often also contain economic and identity issues. Discuss.
Environmental movements, such as the Chipko Movement, often encompass multiple issues including economic and identity-related concerns. Economic concerns arise when resource exploitation (like deforestation) threatens local livelihoods dependent on these resources. Identity issues manifest as communities struggle to assert their autonomy and cultural ties to the environment against external forces like government or corporate interests. Thus, these movements become arenas where economic survival, ecological sustainability, and cultural identity converge, exemplifying their multi-dimensional nature.
Distinguish between peasant and New Farmer’s movements
Peasant Movements vs. New Farmer’s Movements
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Peasant Movements: These are typically agrarian struggles rooted in pre-colonial and colonial histories, often involving sharecroppers or people with limited land ownership. They are characterized by demands for better labor conditions, reduced exploitation by landlords, and have traditionally been more local or regional.
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New Farmer’s Movements: Starting in the 1970s in India, these movements are generally non-party, more organized, and involve farmers who are market-involved as both producers and consumers. These movements focus largely on price-related issues such as pricing of agricultural products, input costs, and equitable government policies. They employ novel protest methods such as road blockades and are often more strategic and widespread compared to the traditional peasant movements.
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Understanding Social Movements: Class 12 Sociology Notes
Introduction to Social Movements
Social movements have been a powerful force in shaping societies around the world. These movements entail collective efforts by individuals and groups to bring about or resist change, and they have played a crucial role in achieving social reforms and justice.
Definition and Importance of Social Movements
What Are Social Movements?
Social movements are organised efforts by groups of people working towards a common goal, usually centred around bringing about social or political changes. These movements can range from local grassroots protests to nationwide campaigns aiming for legislative changes.
Importance of Social Movements in Shaping Society
Social movements are essential because they challenge the status quo, advocate for rights and justice, and influence policies. They have led to significant societal changes, such as the abolition of slavery, women's suffrage, and civil rights advancements.
Historical Context of Social Movements
Early Social Movements and Their Impact
Historical social movements have laid the groundwork for modern society. Movements like the struggle for the eight-hour workday, women's rights, and anti-colonial movements have radically transformed societal structures and norms.
Key Achievements of Historical Social Movements
Some of the key achievements include:
- Workers' Rights: Establishment of an eight-hour workday and fair wages.
- Gender Equality: Women's right to vote and gender parity laws.
- Civil Rights: Laws and policies ensuring racial equality and ending segregation.
Features of a Social Movement
Collective Action and Organisation
Social movements rely on collective action and a degree of organisation. This includes leadership structures, strategic planning, and coordination among participants.
Objectives and Ideologies
These movements typically have clear objectives, whether it's policy change, raising awareness, or social reform. They are driven by shared ideologies that unify the participants.
Leadership and Structure
A social movement often has defined leadership roles and a decision-making structure. This organisation is crucial for the movement's effectiveness and sustainability.
Types of Social Movements
Reformist Movements
Reformist movements aim to make gradual changes within the existing social and political framework. Examples include the Right to Information campaign in India and the Civil Rights Movement in the US.
Redemptive Movements
Redemptive movements focus on a complete change in personal consciousness and individual actions. For instance, spiritual movements that aim to transform individuals' lives and behaviours.
Revolutionary Movements
Revolutionary movements seek to radically transform societal structures, often involving the capture of state power. Historical examples include the Russian Revolution and the Naxalite movement in India.
Notable Social Movements in India
Indian National Movement and Independence
The Indian National Movement was pivotal in achieving India's independence from colonial rule. It was marked by mass mobilisations, led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, who used non-violent methods such as satyagraha.
Peasant and Worker Movements
Movements like the Tebhaga and Telangana movements addressed the exploitation of peasants and farmers, while worker movements fought for better wages and working conditions.
The Chipko Movement
The Chipko Movement was a significant ecological movement in India, where villagers, particularly women, hugged trees to prevent them from being cut down. This movement highlighted the importance of environmental sustainability.
Dalit Movements
Dalit movements have been crucial in fighting caste discrimination and advocating for equal rights. These movements have brought about significant changes in social policies and caste-based practices.
Contribution of Social Movements to Rights and Equality
Rights of Workers
Social movements have been instrumental in securing workers' rights, including safe working conditions, fair wages, and reasonable working hours.
Gender Equality and Women's Role
Women have played a vital role in social movements, fighting for gender equality and rights. Movements led by women have achieved milestones like the right to vote, equal pay, and reproductive rights.
Environmental Sustainability
Ecological movements, such as the Chipko movement, have emphasised the need for sustainable development and the conservation of natural resources.
New vs. Old Social Movements
Characteristics of Old Social Movements
Old social movements were primarily centred around issues of economic inequality, class struggles, and political power, often led by political parties.
Features of New Social Movements
New social movements focus on quality-of-life issues, cultural identity, and environmental concerns. They are often less formally organised and more integrated with global networks.
Case Studies of New Social Movements
Examples include the environmental movement against climate change, women's rights movements, and LGBTQ+ rights movements.
Sociology and Social Movements
Importance of Study in Sociology
Studying social movements is crucial for understanding how societies change and evolve. It helps sociologists analyse collective behaviour, social conflicts, and the effectiveness of various forms of protest.
Differing Perspectives: Durkheim vs. Marx
Sociologists like Emile Durkheim viewed social movements as potential sources of disorder, while Karl Marx saw them as necessary for societal change, driven by class struggles.
Global Social Movements
Anti-Apartheid Struggle in South Africa
The anti-apartheid movement, led by figures like Nelson Mandela, was instrumental in dismantling racial segregation and achieving equality in South Africa.
Civil Rights Movement in the United States
The Civil Rights Movement, spearheaded by leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., fought for the end of racial segregation and the pursuit of equal rights for African Americans.
Modern Environmental Movements
Contemporary environmental movements focus on issues such as climate change, pollution, and sustainable development, advocating for policies that protect the environment.
Organisational Tactics and Mobilisation
Methods of Protest and Advocacy
Social movements employ various methods of protest, including marches, sit-ins, online campaigns, and lobbying efforts. These tactics help garner public support and pressure policymakers.
Role of Media and Internet in Mobilisation
The internet and social media have become powerful tools for organising and mobilising supporters, allowing movements to reach a global audience and coordinate actions effectively.
graph LR
A[Social Movements] --> B[Methods of Protest]
A --> C[Role of Media]
B --> D[Marches]
B --> E[Sit-ins]
B --> F[Online Campaigns]
B --> G[Lobbying]
C --> H[Global Reach]
C --> I[Effective Coordination]
Counter Movements and Social Dynamics
Defence of Status Quo
Counter movements often arise in response to social movements and aim to defend existing social structures and resist change.
Examples of Counter Movements
Examples include movements opposing gender equality, caste-based reservation, and environmental regulations.
Conclusion
Social movements have been, and continue to be, a driving force in shaping modern society. They exemplify the dynamic relationship between individuals and the broader social structure, highlighting the power of collective action in bringing about meaningful change. Understanding these movements is essential for appreciating the complexities of societal evolution and the ongoing quest for justice and equality.
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