Place, Space and Geography in Social Movements and Multivalent Meanings and the Scope of Conflict

1. Place, Space and Geography in Social Movements

• increased recognition of the importance of space in a social movements because:

• to get people to join the movement--if surroundings don't support

• locations can be symbolic--ex. March on Washington to the Lincoln Memorial became representative of having voice heard, Lincoln a symbol of freedom

2. Multivalent Meanings and the Scope of Conflict

• symbolism affects progress of movement 

• "The outcome of any conflict is determined by the extent to which the audience becomes involved in it" (p. 246) -- where the protest is happening and how much space they claim will determine how many people will be involved.

Framing can happen outside of location--however, location and place can make or break a movement. Ideas have different meanings in different places, particularly in regard to morals and values. Place greatly affects the perception of framing. Movement leaders can use a place to frame an argument.

Key terms:
1. Multivalent: having many different interpretations, meanings, or values

• scale: national, regional, and local level of engagement

2. Credence: belief in or acceptance of something as true