What is a social movement?

A social movement is defined as a collective effort by a group of individuals who come together to push for specific changes or achieve particular goals that address social, political, or cultural issues. This can include advocating for civil rights, environmental policy changes, or any movement aimed at societal reform.

The essence of a social movement lies in its organized nature and shared objectives among participants, which distinguishes it from individual actions or temporary phenomena. Movements often arise in response to perceived injustices or needs within a community, and they typically engage in sustained efforts to influence public opinion, governmental policy, or social norms.

Understanding this definition emphasizes that social movements are not simply about demographics, physical relocation, or methodologies for analyzing population statistics. Instead, they reflect a concerted effort towards meaningful change driven by collective action and shared motivations.