Outcomes of Social Movements

Abstract The study and explanation of outcomes is a demanding task on both the conceptual and empirical level. It is important to widen our perspective and consider the range of outcomes beyond the stated goals of movement actors, including unintended consequences. This broader perspective takes into account the interaction effects of various kinds of causal factors, different time frames in assessing outcomes, and the modification of goals as part of processes of learning and adaptation. It allows researchers to arrive at more differentiated conclusions when it comes to stating a movement’s failure or success. Instead of positing crude generalizations of factors for outcomes, it is more fruitful to engage in strategically chosen comparisons of cases. Given the number and complexity of causal factors, we should refrain from making unconditional predictions about the effects of contemporary movements.