Theory as Catalyst: Transforming Understanding into Action

What do you think the relationship between theory and social change is or can be?

Theory and social change are interconnected as they are applied to social interactions and constructs.  If I discuss taking theory into action and take my position in higher education for granted, I will have learned nothing.

We must see that performance culture is dangerous and prevents real social change.  Posting on the internet about wanting things to be different but not taking action by spending time in prison reform, protests, helping inner-city schools, and the like is performative.  We want people to think we are good because we share thoughts that claim compassion.  

Reading theories and feeling a stirring in our hearts and bones to improve our global society and ensure access, equity, and belonging for all humans catalyzes social change.  But we have to act.  In my life, I stand up for injustice and teach my local community about disability access and inclusion.  I also apply what I learn from social theory to examine how social stratification impacts happiness and financial stability.  

Systematization of oppression is accurate, and how we shop, where we work, and what we write all matter.  If I take my positions of privilege as "that way of the world," then I am the problem.  In this way, theory is a catalyst for change, not just food for thought. Social change is the active response to theories on racism and feminism. We cannot step on someone else's head to climb the ladder of success. We must reach to our right, left, and below our position to bring others with us without assigning worthiness. All are worthy.

We want people to think we are good because we share thoughts that claim compassion.

1. How would you address those who argue that theory alone is sufficient to create awareness and inspire social change without the need for direct action?

The relationship between theory and social change is complex and dynamic, functioning as both a lens through which we understand societal issues and a call to action that compels individuals and communities to enact change. Theories provide frameworks that help us analyze the structures and systems perpetuating inequality and injustice. However, merely understanding these theories is not enough; we must translate that understanding into meaningful actions. For example, while theories of social justice can illuminate the barriers that marginalized groups face, they become powerful tools for change only when individuals engage in advocacy, community organizing, or direct service work.

A practical illustration of this connection can be found in the disability rights movement, which has harnessed theoretical frameworks surrounding access and inclusion to advocate for legislation like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This movement not only raised awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities but also translated that awareness into concrete policy changes that enhanced their rights and access to public spaces.

To those who argue that theory alone is sufficient for creating awareness and inspiring social change, I would emphasize that awareness without action often leads to stagnation. While theory can illuminate injustices and educate individuals, the actions taken in response to this awareness truly drive social change. For instance, discussions about systemic racism or gender inequality can foster understanding, but without mobilizing efforts such as community organizing or legislative advocacy, those discussions remain abstract and disconnected from real-world impacts. Therefore, it is crucial to view theory as a starting point that, when accompanied by action, empowers us all to realize its full potential for change.

 2. What about the perspective that some individuals may not have the resources or capacity to actively participate in social reform, which could diminish the effectiveness of your claim?

Acknowledging that some individuals may lack the resources or capacity to participate actively in social reform is vital to understanding the barriers to engagement. Structural inequalities often limit the ability of marginalized individuals to take action, highlighting the need for inclusive movements that recognize and address these disparities. My argument is not about individual responsibility alone; it calls for collective action that values and empowers everyone, particularly those with fewer resources, to contribute to social change. This includes creating accessible platforms for participation, offering support systems, and fostering community networks that enable all voices to be heard and valued.

3. Have you considered that social media activism can increase awareness and mobilization efforts, even if it sometimes appears performative?

I recognize that social media activism can lead to increased awareness and mobilization, even if it sometimes appears performative. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become crucial spaces for disseminating information, rallying support, and connecting activists across the globe. While some may engage in "slacktivism," a term often used to describe minimal or symbolic acts of support, many others leverage these platforms to drive real change, share resources, and organize grassroots movements. Therefore, rather than dismissing social media activism outright, we should critically assess how it can complement more direct forms of activism, fostering a broader culture of engagement that encourages individuals to move from online awareness to offline action. This potential should give us hope and optimism for the future of social change.

Reading theories and feeling a stirring in our hearts and bones to improve our global society and ensure access, equity, and belonging for all humans catalyzes social change.  But we have to act.