What are the 4 types of social change? He described four types of social movements, including: alternative, redemptive, reformative, and revolutionary social movements. Alternative movements are typically focused on self-improvement and limited, specific changes to individual beliefs and behavior.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Sociologist David Aberle (1966) identified four types of social movements based on their objectives and the extent of change they seek: alternative, redemptive, reformative, and revolutionary.
1. Alternative Movements:
These movements aim for limited, specific changes in individuals’ beliefs or behaviors. They focus on self-improvement and do not seek to alter society at large. Examples include Alcoholics Anonymous, which assists individuals in overcoming alcoholism, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), which educates about the dangers of drunk driving.
2. Redemptive Movements:
Redemptive movements target specific segments of the population and advocate for radical changes in individuals’ lives. Often associated with religious or spiritual transformations, these movements seek profound personal change. An example is the religious movement of the 1960s that aimed to provoke inner change or spiritual growth in individuals.
3. Reformative Movements:
Reformative movements aim for partial change of the social system and often work within legal and political frameworks to achieve their goals. They seek to change specific aspects of society without seeking to overthrow the entire system. Examples include the civil rights movement, which sought to end racial segregation and discrimination, and the women’s suffrage movement, which fought for women’s right to vote.
4. Revolutionary Movements:
Revolutionary movements seek to completely change every aspect of society, including its political, economic, and social structures. They aim to overthrow the existing system and replace it with a new one. Examples include the French Revolution, which led to the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic, and the Russian Revolution, which resulted in the rise of the Soviet Union.
Understanding these categories helps sociologists analyze the goals, methods, and potential impacts of various social movements. Each type reflects different levels of ambition and strategies for achieving social change.