The role of the subject as seen in modern social movement theories.

Abstract

This thesis "The role of the subject as seen in modern social movements" aims at closely scrutinising the predominant and popular social movement theories since the Second World War. Through the careful analysis of the role of the subject in the predominant social movement paradigms (collective action theories, resource mobilisation theories and even identity-based theories) the subject, it is demonstrated, is all too often seen as secondary or merely a recipient of social change. The thesis concludes that an ethnomethodological perspective, in which the subject is recognised and scrutinised, will serve as a valuable tool for the analysis of social change and social movements in modern society. The works of Alberto Melucci substantiates the author's assertions.