Description:
This timely reader provides an anthology of the literature on social movements, including the key texts relating to the notions of conflict, social change and collective action. The editors have selected and commented on the cameos found in this field of analysis and research, from classical sociology through to contemporary social movement theory.
Review Quotes:
"A very precious instrument for those who want to read about social movements across time, space and approaches." - Donatella della Porta, European University, Italy
"In bleak or despairing times we fall back into history with its singular, unique stories, whereas in times of emerging confidence we demand from sociology the generalization of experience in the register of reason. Contemporary sociology requires debate, dialogue, and discussion within itself, and recollection and reconstitution from without its boundaries. In a brilliant selection of European and American readings grouped around the major interpretations of social movements, Ruggiero and Montagna have renewed the classic study of social collectivities with comprehensive critique and much-needed clarity." - Peter Linebaugh, University of Toledo, USA
"Hats off to the editors on a truly innovative collection of readings on social movements. Besides the "usual suspects," Ruggiero and Montagna have included selections from the likes of Marx, Durkheim, Weber and Simmel reminding us that an interest in conflict and collective action has been a part of sociology from the very beginning. And the section on "new global movements" is a welcome addition as well, redressing the longstanding western bias in the field." - Doug McAdam, Stanford University, USA