Collective Action

Collective action pertains to synchronized actions done by a plurality of individuals primarily to improve the conditions or promote the interests of one’s in-group. This entry provides a discussion of the features, production, and goals of collective action; the determinants and social psychological theories that explain the factors leading to collective action; a brief introduction to the different forms it may take; and the outcome and effectiveness of collective action.

Features of Collective Action

Sociological perspectives equate collective action with mass behaviors of group members acting in concert. In this view, the smallest sociological unit is a collective such as a protest movement, a political party, or a labor union. Their collective actions are understood as singular acts of groups rather than synchronized multiple acts of ...

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