Elitist vs. Popular Social Action: Which Model is More Effective?

Elitist social action is a model of social change in which the elite, or those with power and influence, initiate and carry out social action on behalf of the masses. This model is based on the idea that the elite have a better understanding of the problems facing society and are therefore better equipped to bring about change.

There are three sub-models of elitist social action:

• Legislative social action model: This model involves using the law to bring about social change. For example, the elite may lobby for new laws or amend existing laws to address social problems.
• Economic sanction model: This model involves using economic pressure to bring about social change. For example, the elite may boycott businesses that are engaged in unethical practices or invest in businesses that are working to address social problems.
• Direct physical model: This model involves using direct action to bring about social change. For example, the elite may organize protests or demonstrations to raise awareness of social problems.

Elitist social action has both advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, the elite often have the resources and influence necessary to bring about significant change. On the other hand, this model can be seen as paternalistic, as it assumes that the elite know what is best for the masses. Additionally, this model can be ineffective if the elite are not truly committed to bringing about change.

Popular Social Action

Popular social action is a model of social change in which the masses, or the people who are most affected by a social problem, initiate and carry out social action on their own behalf. This model is based on the idea that the people who are most affected by a problem are also the ones who are best equipped to solve it.

There are three sub-models of popular social action:

• Conscientization model: This model involves raising awareness of a social problem among the masses. This can be done through education, organizing, and other forms of communication.
• Organizational model: This model involves building organizations that can represent the interests of the masses and advocate for change.
• Direct action model: This model involves taking direct action to address a social problem. This can include strikes, boycotts, and other forms of protest.

Popular social action has both advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, this model is more democratic and empowering than elitist social action. On the other hand, this model can be more difficult to implement, as the masses may not have the resources or experience necessary to bring about change. Additionally, this model can be more risky, as the masses may face retaliation from those who benefit from the status quo.

Models of Social Action

In addition to elitist and popular social action, there are a number of other models of social action. These include:

• Participatory social action: This model involves the active participation of all stakeholders in the process of bringing about social change.
• Transformational social action: This model seeks to transform the underlying causes of social problems, rather than simply addressing the symptoms.
• Radical social action: This model seeks to bring about fundamental change to the social order.

The choice of which model of social action to use will depend on the specific circumstances of the situation. However, all of these models have the potential to bring about positive social change.

Conclusion

Elitist and popular social action are two important models of social change. Each model has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of which model to use will depend on the specific circumstances of the situation. However, both models have the potential to bring about positive social change.