Understanding Social Movements

Understanding Social Movements is a comprehensive volume that explores the intricate dynamics, evolution, and impact of social movements, especially in the Indian context. Edited by distinguished sociologists M.H. Makwana and Richard Pais, this book provides a multidimensional perspective on how collective actions emerge, organize, and challenge existing social structures.

The book opens with a theoretical foundation, discussing key sociological frameworks such as Functionalism, Marxism, Resource Mobilization Theory, Strain Theory, and New Social Movement Theories. These conceptual tools help in analyzing the motivations, structures, and phases of social movements—from emergence to decline.

Divided into six thematic sections, the volume provides focused insights into major Indian movements. It begins with Tribal Movements, shedding light on regional disparities and local dynamics. The Dalit Movements section unpacks the historical and contemporary struggles for dignity and rights. Backward Classes Movements explore caste-based mobilizations in states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The Environmental Movements section includes reflections on India's ecological struggles such as the Save Silent Valley, Chipko, and Narmada Bachao Andolan. Women’s Movements highlight feminist journeys, caste-gender intersections, and the ongoing evolution of women's rights in India.

Whether it's the spiritual reforms of Buddhism and Jainism, or the contemporary voices of Nirbhaya and MeToo movements, this volume maps India’s vibrant history of protest and change. Ideal for students, researchers, administrators, and policy planners, this book acts as both a primer and a reference guide for understanding the socio-political landscape of India through its movements.