Fundamental Theories for the Study of Student Movements in Venezuela

This paper explores the theoretical bases utilized by the author in order to study student movements in Venezuela between 1958 and 1992. Beginning with new theories in the study of social movements, which have developed since the 1960s, we explain the basis of the Resource Mobilization Theory and the Collective Identity Theory which represent basic additions to scientific thought. The theoretical propositions of Alain Touraine, Luis Gomez Calcano, Jose Aranda Sanchez and Jose Alvarez are mentioned among others. The specify of the study of student movements in Latin America and in Venezuela is studied. The conclusion is that modern theories as to social movements provide an important theoretical basis in order to explain the social practice of student movements in Venezuela.