Matrix Overviews for Mobilization
occurs in response to a perceived crisis and crystallizes around certain identifiable results. Each type of is a Triad based on three adjacent types of . has two features that distinguish it sharply from and :
- demands a self-interested attitude: i.e. it occurs on behalf of people thinking of themselves and their values, or of groups looking to increase their strength, or of organizations serving the mission of their members.
- involves direct action and complex activities: so it requires proper organizing and funding, supported by expert advice.
These matrices contain some additional material.
The first matrix provides some easy to recognize features for identification:
| Triad (Levels) |
Driver of Mobilization | Typical Feature | Communication |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5
(Ls 7-5) |
Unity, non-violence, perseverance. | Message of hope. e.g. «we will overcome» |
|
| 4
(Ls 6-4) |
Intense belief and forcefulness: ideology-based. |
Dogmatic demand. e.g. «stop all drug-testing on live animals—or else!» |
|
| 3
(Ls 5-3) |
Simple, specific & very brief action e.g. vote, donation |
Slogan or pithy phrase e.g. «change we can believe in» |
|
| 2
(Ls 4-2) |
Practical recommendations | Timely, targeted program. e.g. steps that deal with a worsening epidemic. |
|
| 1
(Ls 3-1) |
Enticed cooperation & efforts to coerce capitulation | Playing to win. e.g. «our non-negotiable demands include X, Y & Z» |
This next matrix contains additional material and looks at the formal features. Details of the internal structure, examples and common problems are not repeated: review Drivers of Mobilization here.
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| Triad (Levels) |
Driver of Mobilization | Function | The Mobilizer & The Mobilized | Requirements for Success |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5
(Ls 7-5) |
To unite and strengthen an affected group by articulating right and wrong, despite widespread resistance to change in wider society. | Charismatic Leader
& sufferers + sympathizers |
Leader's home institution provides backing, organization and publicity; sufferers tolerate the unacceptable and have faith in non-violent protest; moral outrage attracts sympathetic outsiders. | |
| 4
(Ls 6-4) |
To use the deepest convictions of a section of society to stop the infliction of social harm: actual or potential. | Natural leader
& true believers |
Life-defining ideological commitment; backing from within the establishment; passion, combativeness and a readiness to force issues by using illegal measures. | |
| 3
(Ls 5-3) |
To demonstrate existing values in a specific, personal and responsible way that has a socio-political effect when many others act similarly. | Campaign organizer
& target public |
Engage many people on an intrinsically popular and timely issue; effective organization, management and funding; use of volunteers and possibly expert consultants. | |
| 2
(Ls 4-2) |
To reassure the relevant public that their concern is being seriously addressed by the responsible entity (or entities). | Political leaders &/or top executive & bureaucracy-based managers and experts. |
Speed and decisiveness in appraising and responding; command of specialist expertise; commitment of extra resources; providing continuing reports of progress as long as needed. | |
| 1
(Ls 3-1) |
To marshal a group to persuade an official in wider society to choose in accord with the group's interests, and not choose in ways damaging to the group. | Chief Executive
& group members with influence and contacts + self-interested supporters. |
Put group on a war-footing; develop a comprehensive, well-informed, well-funded strategy; use good legal advice; activate pressure, sources of funds, lobbying, diplomacy, favours and media advocacy. |
- Continue to inquiring for public policy.
Originally posted: August-2009; Last updated: 15-Nov-2010