THIS IS AN UPRISING By Mark and Paul Engler

This Is an Uprising

By Mark and Paul Engler

Core Thesis

The book argues that nonviolent movements can be systematically studied, strategically planned, and effectively executed - they're not just spontaneous eruptions but can follow predictable patterns of success.

Key Frameworks to Focus On

1. Structure vs. Momentum-Driven Organizing

2. The Civil Rights Movement's Hybrid Model

3. Four Roles of Social Movements

  1. The Reformer: Works within system
  2. The Rebel: Creates direct confrontation
  3. The Citizen: Supports change through mainstream channels
  4. The Change Agent: Organizes alternatives

Essential Concepts (Focus on These)

1. Strategic Nonviolence

2. Momentum-Driven Organizing

3. The Pillars of Support

4. Cycles of Movement

  1. Movement Emergence
    • Grievance identification
    • Early organizing
    • Building networks
  2. Movement Growth
    • Trigger events
    • Rapid mobilization
    • Peak moments
  3. Movement Maintenance
    • Institutionalization
    • Long-term organizing
    • Policy change

Chapters to Prioritize

Must Read Thoroughly

  1. Chapter 1: Introduction to strategic nonviolence
  2. Chapter 4: Movement cycles and momentum
  3. Chapter 7: Hybrid approaches
  4. Chapter 9: Future of movements

Skim These

Key Case Studies (Read Quickly)

  1. Serbian Student Movement
    • Youth-led
    • Strategic planning
    • Creative tactics
  2. Civil Rights Movement
    • Strategic escalation
    • Media strategy
    • Leadership development
  3. Marriage Equality
    • Long-term strategy
    • Cultural change
    • Institution building

Strategic Applications for FYP

1. Movement Building

2. Organization Development

3. Tactical Planning


Revision #2
Created 31 October 2024 01:42:40 by Marx
Updated 31 October 2024 01:43:44 by Marx