Paper Summary
Paperzilla title
A New Dataset Reveals How Protests Have Changed Over Time
This paper introduces the Opposition Movements and Groups (OMG) dataset, which contains information on 1452 mass mobilization movements from 1789 to 2019. The authors use the dataset to document historical trends in mass mobilization, including a shift towards nonviolent tactics and changes in the dominant ideologies and social groups involved in movements. The paper also explores the relationship between nonviolent mobilization and democratization, finding that the relationship is positive but conditional on movement characteristics such as demands, ideology, and social composition.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified.
Identified Weaknesses
This may bias the results towards certain types of movements.
Potential for coding errors
There is some subjectivity in identifying and coding movements.
Over-reliance on V-Dem data for some variables
This could affect generalizability of findings.
Inability to fully address causal inference challenges
This may limit the ability to draw strong causal conclusions.
Rating Explanation
This paper introduces a valuable new dataset that will be of use to researchers studying mass mobilization. The methodology is sound and the historical scope is impressive. There are some limitations related to missing data and potential coding errors, but these are acknowledged by the authors. The analysis of the relationship between nonviolent mobilization and democratization is insightful, albeit not fully causal. Overall, this is a strong contribution to the literature.
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File Information
Original Title:
Mass Mobilization in the Modern Era: Introducing the Opposition Movements and Groups (OMG) Dataset, 1789-2019
Uploaded:
September 02, 2025 at 01:22 PM
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