Social movements were seen as forces that led to disorder. Scholars influenced by the ideas of Karl Marx offered a different view of violent collective action. … Their research showed that poor people in urban areas had good reasons for protesting. They often resorted to public protest because they had no other way of expressing their anger and resentment against deprivation. … There are different kinds of social movements. They can be classified as: (i) redemptive or transformatory; (ii) reformist; and (iii) revolutionary.
Which example do the missing lines give of a redemptive social movement?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → The Ezhava community in Kerala led by Narayana Guru
Option (1) The Ezhava community in Kerala led by Narayana Guru — Correct. A redemptive movement aims to change the personal consciousness and actions of its own members. The Ezhava community in Kerala, led by Narayana Guru, changed its social practices, so it is the example of this type.
Option (2) The 1960s movement to reorganise states by language — Incorrect. The 1960s movement to reorganise states by language worked for change through gradual, incremental steps. It is an example of a reformist movement.
Option (3) The recent Right to Information campaign — Incorrect. The Right to Information campaign is the second example of a reformist movement. It seeks step-by-step change in existing social and political arrangements.
Option (4) The Naxalite movement in India — Incorrect. The Naxalite movement seeks to remove oppressive landlords and state officials. It is an example of a revolutionary movement, which aims to transform social relations radically, often by capturing state power.
NCERT (2026-27): “Reformist, Redemptive, Revolutionary |