Forty years of struggle by Brazil’s landless workers movement offers lessons on engaging the system without being co-opted.

As the “co-governance” model gains traction, here’s a look into the promises and pitfalls—and how organizers are reimagining electoral politics.

Political scientists Frances Fox Piven and Daniel Schlozman have debated whether movements do better to put pressure on political parties from the outside, or to focus on gaining insider power themselves.

Daniel Schlozman argues that, by becoming “anchor groups” within mainstream political parties, movements can secure lasting influence. But is entry into a party worth the price of admission?

How social movements are employing the concept of the “non-reformist reform” to promote far-reaching change.

On the history of the “non-reformist reform.”

In spite of the rising popularity of concepts such as the “Overton Window,” the importance of grassroots organizing is still being underestimated.

The great theorist of disruptive power explains the concept of “dissensus” and how social movements prod elected officials into action by taking controversial stands.

In claiming the goal of “realignment,” groups such as Sunrise and Justice Democrats are reviving an old idea, with hopes of provoking new political transformations.

Politicians fear the disruptive power of a mobilized base, even when it helps them succeed.