Which of the following best describes a social movement?

A social movement is best described as a network of informal interactions around political or cultural conflict because this definition captures the essence of how social movements operate. They typically consist of various groups and individuals who come together, often informally, to advocate for change or raise awareness about specific issues, whether they be political, cultural, social, or environmental.

This collective action is usually characterized by a shared identity or goal, and while it can influence policies and societal norms, it is not limited to formal structures like political parties or singular economic focus. Social movements thrive on community engagement, grassroots organizing, and sustained activism, distinguishing themselves from isolated advocacy efforts or initiatives confined to political party frameworks.

In contrast, focusing solely on economic issues would undermine the broader perspective that social movements can encompass various dimensions of society. Similarly, an individual advocacy effort lacks the collective engagement of a social movement, and defining it strictly as a political party initiative ignores the diverse forms and objectives that social movements may embody. Thus, the collective nature and the focus on broader conflicts provide the most accurate representation of what a social movement entails.