The seminar is concerned with the study of social movements as central actors of political and social change in Europe and beyond. Mobilization no longer depends solely on traditional political structures but increasingly on cultural practices, identities, and transnational dynamics, which require a broader analytical perspective.
The course addresses these dynamics by combining theoretical foundations with case studies. Topics range from protest music and subcultural dissent to revolutions and far-right mobilizations. Students will examine both historical and contemporary examples, including the protest movements of the 1960s, the democratic transformations of 1989 in Eastern Europe, and more recent mobilizations.
The seminar will consist of three key components. Firstly, students will engage with major theories of mobilization, including political opportunity structures, resource mobilization, and cultural framing. Secondly, they will study the role of music and identity in protest, exploring how cultural repertoires sustain collective action. Thirdly, they will develop their own case study analysis, presenting findings in dedicated workshop sessions and receiving feedback from the instructor and peers.
As the course is designed as research-based learning, students are expected to prepare readings in advance, contribute to discussions, moderate one discussion session, and carry out independent research on a chosen social movement.