In the context of democratic theory, what does "collective action" refer to?

In the context of democratic theory, "collective action" refers to collaboration among individuals to achieve common goals. This concept is central to many democratic processes, as it emphasizes the power of individuals coming together to address shared interests or challenges. Collective action recognizes that individuals can often achieve more significant outcomes when they unite their efforts rather than acting alone. This united front is essential in various democratic practices, such as organizing protests, voting initiatives, or any form of grassroots mobilization where a group of individuals strives toward a common objective, reflecting the core values of participation and collective responsibility in a democracy.

The significance of collaboration in achieving common goals highlights the importance of civil society, where individuals work together to influence public policy, advocate for social change, or engage in community development. This interplay between individual agency and collective strength is fundamental to understanding how democratic systems function in practice.