Den unika nykteristen : En studie av den svenska nykterhetsrörelsen

The conditions for the Swedish temperance movement have changed greatly during the latest hundred years. Changes in the society concerning urbanization, globalization and an increasing individualism has forced a necessary adaption from the functions the movement historically have met. In spite of this studies show a decrease in the civil commitment of the society at large, for the movement as well, which has proven to have far-reaching effects of the democratic condition and the confidence of the social institutions. The question arises on how to make this downward going spiral turn upside down?By conducting a qualitative study with members from the temperance movement the purpose of this essay have been to form a deeper understanding of what motivates them in their efforts of engaging in voluntary work. From there, the idea is to with this information come to a conclusion as to what might draw new members into the movement, or other civil committed organizations. The study has focused on four men and four women, living in the county of Norrbotten in Sweden, with ages between 13-65 years of age. Amongst others, theories from Randall Collins, Robert Putnam, Alberto Melucci and Anthony Giddens have been uses to explain the social transformation, the functions of the temperance movement and the inner motivation in humans.The study has shown three different balances within the movement that makes it unique. These concern the social capital, the identity and the view on alcohol that is created in connection with the membership. As such the membership does not require you to be in a certain way, but is instead accepting to all. This essay arguments that the motivation, momentum and attraction for the movement all lies within the movements diversity. It is also here that all its inner strengths lies, and the future of the movement exists.Validerat; 20150706 (global_studentproject_submitter