Many definitions of social activism have focused on political activism. Activism has been used to describe many causes and endeavors. From labor rights to civil rights, from animal rights to the environment, social action has been used to fight for certain causes. Some types of social action include political activism, social welfare activism and social consciousness activism.

When defining social activism as the belief in a just, equitable and loving society where difference is respected, valued and appreciated, you can see that social activism is a natural extension of the ideal of human rights. Activist groups use a variety of tactics to draw attention to social injustice and inequality. Some types of tactics include physical confrontations, boycott, delegative politics and peaceful protests.

One of the best examples of this form of social activism is the civil rights and social injustice activism of today. The major organizing force behind this sort of activism is the American Civil Rights Movement, better known as the 1960's civil rights movement. This movement became known as the "Moral Right Movement." agency sought equal rights for blacks as they were denied in other aspects of society. Some of these activists were known as the "black Muslims" because of their association with the Nation of Islam.

Today there are a number of social groups that claim to support social change and to advance human rights. Some groups are part of the "organic movements" that arose out of the social change movement. In addition, some other non-traditional forms of social action have surfaced as well.

There are many ways that members of society can engage in social activism. Activists can be found participating in protests, participating in demonstrations, writing books and articles, making donations to charity, participating in political activism, lobbying their government representatives and running for office. Activists also join other groups such as trade unions and other grass-roots organizations. All of these groups work together to promote social change through political action. However, many activists choose to engage in more direct action.

Direct action is considered to be any type of physical action that an individual or group takes to promote a cause. For example, peaceful protesters are engaged in acts of civil disobedience as a means of bringing about change in political systems or in corporate policies. Other types of direct action include fundraising, which can involve collecting money for particular causes. Some activism involves volunteer work such as working at an animal shelter. In addition, some types of direct action may involve physical confrontations between activists and the same individuals or groups.

One of the key elements to being a successful social activist is developing strategic alliances. These alliances can involve other individuals or groups who agree with your beliefs and goals. They can include business leaders, media personalities, celebrities, politicians, or members of the clergy. Being part of an alliance encourages you to bring other people into the movement to help promote social change.

Activism requires effective planning, organization, and execution. As stated earlier, the most commonly known types of activism include political agitation, social movements, and direct action. All four of these forms of activism require specific skills that must be developed and refined in order to accomplish the desired goals. Those who are involved in these activities must identify the common good, or what the majority of people want, and then work to make it their common good. This way, they change the minds and hearts of other people so that they will support their ideas. This change in thought can have profound effects on how the social movements are viewed and therefore their success.