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Regimes and Repertoires: Analyzing Social Protest and Political Change

Mikhail Bulgakov

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Regimes and Repertoires

by Charles Tilly

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Charles Tilly's groundbreaking work on social protest and political change, particularly his seminal book "Regimes and Repertoires," has had a profound influence on the field of political sociology. Tilly's analysis of the interplay between political regimes and the repertoire of collective action employed by protesters has provided a powerful framework for understanding the dynamics of social movements and the processes of political change.

Regimes and Repertoires

Tilly's concept of regimes refers to the institutional framework within which political action takes place. Regimes encompass the rules, norms, and institutions that govern political authority and the distribution of power. They can be characterized by their level of openness, the degree of repression they employ, and the extent to which they allow for political participation.

Repertoires, on the other hand, represent the range of collective action strategies employed by protesters. These repertoires include tactics such as demonstrations, strikes, boycotts, and riots. The specific repertoire chosen by a group depends on the characteristics of the regime, the resources available to the protesters, and the goals they seek to achieve.

The Interplay between Regimes and Repertoires

Tilly argued that the interaction between regimes and repertoires shapes the dynamics of social protest and political change. Open regimes, which allow for relatively free political participation, tend to foster a broader repertoire of collective action, including peaceful protests and negotiations. Repressive regimes, however, often limit the available repertoire, forcing protesters to resort to more confrontational tactics.

Moreover, Tilly's analysis highlighted the role of feedback loops in the relationship between regimes and repertoires. Changes in the repertoire of collective action can lead to changes in the regime, while shifts in the regime can influence the repertoires available to protesters. This dynamic relationship creates a complex and ever-evolving process of political action.

Implications for Social Movements and Political Change

Tilly's framework has significant implications for understanding social movements and political change. It emphasizes the importance of considering the political context within which collective action occurs. The types of repertoires available to protesters and the effectiveness of those repertoires depend on the characteristics of the regime.

Tilly's work also suggests that successful political change often requires a combination of strategic repertoire selection and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Movements that can effectively navigate the interplay between regimes and repertoires are more likely to achieve their goals and bring about meaningful social and political transformations.

Contemporary Applications

Tilly's framework continues to be relevant in contemporary political contexts. The rise of authoritarian regimes and the proliferation of new technologies have created new challenges and opportunities for social movements. Protesters around the world are adapting their repertoires to the changing political landscape, employing innovative strategies and leveraging social media to mobilize support.

Charles Tilly's "Regimes and Repertoires" remains a seminal work in the field of political sociology. Its analysis of the interplay between regimes, repertoires, and social protest has provided a powerful framework for understanding political change and the agency of collective action. Tilly's work continues to guide scholars and activists alike in the struggle for social justice and democratic transformation.

Regimes and Repertoires

by Charles Tilly

5 out of 5