Tensions of Praxis: A New Taxonomy for Social Movements

This essay introduces and illustrates tensions of praxis that humans involved in activism face so that thought-action translation can occur more reflexively. Because social movements face unique challenges in effecting social change (Simons, 1970; Stewart, Smith, Denton, 2007) the tensions of praxis are especially important for this type of social change agency. Therefore, this essay situates itself within discussions of environmental social movements and begins with a brief introduction of praxis as a theoretical and practical concern. Then, in order to illuminate the tensions of praxis, the following tensions are identified, explained, and illustrated: (1) this world or that world; (2) activity or inactivity; and (3) means and ends. Throughout the essay, primary data from a 2009 interview with Julia Butterfly Hill are used to illustrate these tensions. The essay concludes with theoretical and practical significance of the tensions of praxis and suggests directions for future research.