countermovement

sociology

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June 24, 2026

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A countermovement is an organized effort that arises in opposition to another movement or a specific social change. In sociology, social movements are sustained campaigns in support of a social goal, aiming to implement or prevent changes in society's structure or values.12

Countermovements can emerge as a reaction to progressive or reform movements. For instance, a strong countermovement developed in the 1960s against certain social programs. These opposing movements can influence the strategy and tactics of the original movement, sometimes forcing a nonviolent movement to adopt more forceful methods due to the opposition it faces. The dynamic between movements and countermovements is a key aspect of understanding social change and the evolution of societal values and structures.1345

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collective behavior
Contingencies
…nature and strategy of the counter-movements or counterfads that arise. When the counter-movement arises, acquires a bitter and reactionary tone, and becomes a backlash, polarization and heightened disorder often lead to demands for order at any cost, at the expense of any amelioration that might otherwise have occurred. But backlash…
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…nature and strategy of the counter-movements or counterfads that arise. When the counter-movement arises, acquires a bitter and reactionary tone, and becomes a backlash, polarization and heightened disorder often lead to demands for order at any cost, at the expense of any amelioration that might otherwise have occurred. But backlash…
Read More