Ambivalent Activism - Working with Contradiction, Hesitation and Doubt for Social Change

What if doubt, hesitation and ambivalence weren't barriers to activism but powerful tools for change?
Challenging the idea that activism is fuelled only by anger or hope, this bold collection explores how activists across anti-racism, climate justice and mental health navigate uncertainty to sustain their work. Blending scholarship with on-the-ground perspectives, this book highlights ambivalence not as a weakness but as a dynamic force.
This is essential reading for anyone engaged in activism or emotional research, redefining what it means to feel and act for justice in a complex world.

About the author

Akwugo Emejulu is Chair of Sociological Studies at the University of Sheffield.

Marlies Kustatscher is Senior Lecturer in Childhood Studies at Moray House School of Education and Sport at the University of Edinburgh.

Callum McGregor is Lecturer in Education at Moray House School of Education and Sport at the University of Edinburgh.

Product details

• Assisted by: Akwugo Emejulu (Editor), Marlies Kustatscher (Editor), Callum McGregor (Editor)
• Publisher: Bristol University Press
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Release: 01.10.2025
• EAN: 9781529239720
• ISBN: 978-1-5292-3972-0
• No. of pages: 176
• Subject: Social sciences, law, business > Political science > Political science and political education