 Lorraine Bayard de Volo, The Nonmaterial Long-Term Benefits of Collective Action: Empowerment and Social Capital in a Nicaraguan WomenĄŻs Organization Core members of a Nicaraguan mothersĄŻ organization remained active in it even when official organizational goals lost immediacy and institutional support with the warĄŻs end and regime change. The nonmaterial benefits of emotional support, collective identity, and empowerment can explain this participation paradox. Material benefits have limited explanatory value, as they were distributed nonselectively. Intangible benefits develop in the process of collective action. Recognition of these benefits helps explain individual motivations as well as organizational longevity. Collective action can benefit both the individual and democracy due to its potential to empower citizens. |