Question

Which of the following is not a feature of social movement?

• A. Sustained collective action
• B. Degree of organization
• C. Leadership and structure
• D. Support of government and state

Hint:

Think of famous social movements like the Indian independence movement, the Civil Rights Movement in the US, or environmental movements. They were all forms of sustained collective action with organization and leadership, and they often challenged the existing state power rather than being supported by it.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A social movement is a type of group action. They are large, sometimes informal, groupings of individuals or organizations which focus on specific political or social issues. The question asks to identify what is not a defining characteristic.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Sustained collective action: This is a core feature. Social movements are not isolated, one-time events. They involve continuous and prolonged collective effort to bring about or resist change.
- Degree of organization: To sustain action, some level of organization is necessary. This can range from informal networks to formal structures, but organization is always present to coordinate activities and resources.
- Leadership and structure: Social movements typically have leaders who articulate goals and mobilize support, as well as a structure that guides their actions.
- Support of government and state: This is not a necessary feature. In fact, many social movements emerge precisely to challenge or protest against the policies, actions, or inaction of the government and the state. They often operate outside of and in opposition to established state structures. While they may eventually gain government support, it is not a prerequisite or a defining feature.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The support of the government and state is not a defining feature of a social movement.