UK A-Levels Politics Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of a social movement?

1. Occupy campaign

2. Anti-smoking legislation

3. The Green Party

4. The Labour Party

The correct answer is: Occupy campaign

The Occupy campaign serves as an exemplary case of a social movement because it represents a broad-based grassroots effort focused on social and economic issues, primarily inequality and corporate influence in politics. Social movements are characterized by collective action, often driven by participants who share common goals and seek to bring about systemic change in society. The Occupy movement, initiated in 2011, is best known for its position against the 1% versus the 99%, voicing concerns over financial inequality and promoting social justice. In contrast, anti-smoking legislation is a specific legal framework aimed at regulating behaviors rather than a collective social effort aimed at societal change, and therefore does not fit the definition of a social movement. The Green Party, while it advocates for environmental issues and social justice, operates primarily as a political party seeking electoral success rather than as a movement organized through grassroots activism. Similarly, the Labour Party is a political institution focused on election and governance rather than a social movement, even though it may originate from social reform efforts. Therefore, the Occupy campaign stands out as a true representation of a social movement.