Activism

Activism

Activism, in a general sense, can be described as intentional action or inaction to bring about social or political change. This action is in support of, or opposition to, one side of an often controversial argument.

The well known terms activism and activist used in a political manner first appeared in the Belgian press in 1916 in connection with the Flamingo movement. The word "activism" is often used synonymously with protest or dissent, but activism can stem from any number of political orientations and take a wide range of forms, from writing letters to newspapers or politicians, political campaigning, economic activism (such as boycotts or preferentially patronizing preferred businesses), rallies and street marches, strikes, or even guerrilla tactics. In the more confrontational cases, an activist may be called a freedom fighter by some, and a terrorist by others, depending on whether the commentator supports the activist's ends.

In some cases, activism has nothing to do with protest or confrontation: for instance, some religious, feminist or vegetarian/vegan activists try to persuade people to change their behavior directly, rather than persuade governments to change laws. The cooperative movement seeks to build new institutions which conform to cooperative principles, and generally does not lobby or protest politically.


Transformational activism

Transformational activism is the idea that people need to transform on the inside as well on the outside in order to create any meaningful change in the world.

One example of transformational activism is peacekeeping which, as defined by the United Nations, is "a way to help countries torn by conflict create conditions for sustainable peace." Peacekeepers monitor and observe peace processes in post-conflict areas and assist ex-combatants in implementing the peace agreements they may have signed. Such assistance comes in many forms, including confidence-building measures, power-sharing arrangements, electoral support, strengthening the rule of law, and economic and social development. Accordingly UN peacekeepers (often referred to as Blue Helmets because of their light blue helmets) can include soldiers, civilian police officers, and other civilian personnel.


Types of activism

Civil disobedience
Community building
Activism industry
Cooperative movement
Craftivism
Voluntary simplicity
Economic activism
Boycott
Divestment (a.k.a. Disinvestment)
Franchise activism
Lobbying
Media activism
Culture jamming
Hacktivism
Internet activism
Propaganda
Guerrilla communication
Non-violent confrontation
Violent confrontation
Rioting
Terrorism
Protest
Demonstration
Direct action
Theater for Social Change
Protest songs
Strike action
Youth activism
Student activism
Youth-led media


See also

Category:Activists
Activism industry
Civics
Demagogy
Judicial activism
Lobbying
Political Campaign
Protest
Rebellion
Reform movement
Revolution
Social movement
Teaching for social justice