I am personally an advocate for Gladwell’s view on activism over Stone – but I still give Stone an A for effort and believe he is on to something. Webster defines activism as: a policy of taking direct and militant action to achieve a political or social goal; the use of direct, often confrontational action, in opposition to or in support of a cause. To me this means that behind activism is passion and connection. It involves feeling so strongly about something that you are willing to make a stand for it. People who participate in activism are working to achieve real things or at least get across a strong point. It is not a random act or a single act but a lifestyle - a need within them to be fulfilled through thorough thought and strategy. These people are not scared of standing up to danger because it is for something that they are so connected to, so passionate about – danger is not an obstacle.
I believe that activism needs hierarchy and structure. Like minds must come together to form a movement – a strategic one at that. In order to get real results – one cannot aimlessly go protest and strike but must be ready to put significant thought and effort into the cause. Receiving the change so many activists strive for is not an easy feat. One must be prepared for setbacks and obstacles in their way.
I believe this the appropriate place to mention Stone’s efforts. I firmly believe that social media is a great outlet for activism and can do a lot to facilitate activists efforts. It is a great place for like minds to join together, grow in numbers, share ideas, develop plans and other things passionate activists do. I however, do not believe that social media alone will bring about the change that such people live for.
Both men have great ideas. And by pulling a few from one another – activists stand a chance to creating the change they live for.
No comments:
Post a Comment