Citizen-State Interaction and Technical Controversy: The U.S. Army Chemical Stockpile Disposal Program

Abstract

This paper explores the development and transformation of a local collective campaign opposing the U.S. Army's ChemicaL Weapons Stockpile Disposal Program into a social movement with national and international dimensions. I examine the ways in which the actions of both citizens and the Army have been shaped by officials, policies, and organizations at multiple levels of the state. Contrary to the emphasis on extra-institutional actions noted in many studies of movements and collective action, I show that the social; political and scientific context of technical controversies with the state may place constraints upon and opportunities for action to be directed and sustained through institutional channels. Specifically, I explain the effects of political opportunities, "tareget vulnerabilities" (Walsh 1986) and specialized resources on the development and transformation of claims-making, forms of action,organizational structure and the expressed aims of the groups involved. I end with suggestions for practical distinctions and refinements in the concepts used in the analysis.