New Model Explores Dynamics of Social Movements and Radicalization

In recent research, a team of authors led by Emma F. Thomas has developed an agent-based model to explore the dynamics of social movements, particularly focusing on the transition from mobilization to radicalization. The paper, titled "From Mobilisation to Radicalisation: Probing the Persistence and Radicalisation of Social Movements Using an Agent-Based Model," was submitted to arXiv on August 23, 2024. The research addresses a significant gap in understanding the factors that contribute to sustained social movements versus transient ones.

The authors introduce a model called DIMESim, which simulates the interactions between protesters and authorities, taking into account various psychological attributes of the protesters. The findings suggest that the responsiveness of authorities plays a crucial role in determining the trajectory of social movements. When authorities are responsive, movements tend to persist through conventional means. However, if authorities fail to engage effectively, the model indicates a shift towards latent radicalism among the population.

This research has implications for policymakers and activists alike, as it sheds light on the conditions that foster either sustained engagement or disengagement from social movements. Understanding these dynamics can inform strategies to address grievances and potentially mitigate radicalization. The full paper can be accessed here. The authors include Emma F. Thomas, Mengbin Ye, Simon D. Angus, Tony J. Mathew, Winnifred Louis, Liam Walsh, Silas Ellery, Morgana Lizzio-Wilson, and Craig McGarty.