Which term describes the stage in a social movement where the discontented become aware that others share their views and that united action is possible?

• A. Urbanization
• B. Formal Organization
• C. Popular stage
• D. Institutional change

Answer: (C)

Understanding the stages of a social movement, this moment is when the discontented realize others share their views and that united action is possible. That realization is the hallmark of the popular stage, where grievances become a shared concern and public attention starts to focus on the issue, enabling collective mobilization. It’s distinct from urbanization, which is about city growth; from formal organization, which comes as groups start structuring leadership and routines; and from institutional change, which is the end result the movement aims to bring about rather than the initial awakening.