How is a social movement defined?

A social movement is understood as a collective effort by a group of individuals who come together to address social, political, or environmental issues, typically characterized by sustained action and engagement over a period of time. The essence of a social movement lies in its organized nature and its goal of enacting societal change through various forms of activism, which can include demonstrations, protests, and advocacy campaigns.

Option B embodies this definition by emphasizing the continuity and ongoing nature of protests and actions taken by participants over time. Social movements are not just isolated incidents; rather, they build momentum, foster community involvement, and aim to influence public opinion and policy through persistent efforts.

In contrast, the other options represent concepts that lack the persistent collective action or community focus that defines social movements. A solitary event against a policy would not encapsulate the broader strategy or momentum of a social movement. An electoral campaign strategy is specific to winning elections and does not inherently involve ongoing collective actions aimed at broader societal change. Lastly, a formal governmental initiative is typically a top-down approach led by institutions, rather than a grassroots movement driven by citizens aiming for change.