Cooptation or Convergence in Field Level Dynamics: Social Movement Structure, Identity and Image

Abstract

This paper adds to the growing area of research linking institutional analysis and social movement theory. Conceiving the environmental movement as a field-level structure in pursuit of change within a broader organizational field, this paper uses social network analysis to deconstruct the movement, like the field of which it is a part, not as a unitary and monolithic actor but as an intertwined constellation of actors and clusters of actors whose membership holds differing frames regarding their individual and collective purpose. This constellation is not bounded by organizational form, such as the traditional notion of the non-governmental organization (NGO), but rather includes non-traditional forms (such as corporations) that are ideological linked to the goals of some segments of the movement. This is the outcome of protracted institutional engagement which yields a gradual merge of interests among once competing movements. This paper assesses how this merge in constituencies is related to the core identity and image of the movement and closes with a discussion of the implications of this alteration for the movement’s ongoing ability to play the role of institutional entrepreneur within field level debates.