Citation

Mann L. Aust. Psychol. 1993; 28(2): 69-73.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1993, Australian Psychological Society, Publisher Wiley-Blackwell)

DOI

10.1080/00050069308258878

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper examines several factors that affect the success or failure of social movements in producing social change. These factors include social movement organisation, mobilisation of resources, and protest ideology and tactics. Public opinion has an important mediating role in determining the success or failure of social movements. Reference is made to research on minority influence in social groups and to the kinds of tactics used and claims made by minorities to win resources and exert influence. Evidence is reviewed relating to the effectiveness of demonstrations in achieving changes in government policy and to the effectiveness of militant protest compared with peaceful demonstrations in producing change. Evidence is drawn from research on the impact of the peace movement, specific antiwar movements, and the antinuclear movement.