Which of the following is true regarding Resource Mobilisation Theory?

I. It is an outcome of rational choice theory.

II. It is based on the assumption that individuals’ actions are motivated randomly not by any preference.

III. The theory purported to show that the success of a movement depended on the resources available to be used.

Correct option is D

Resource Mobilization Theory (RMT) is a sociological theory that explains how social movements succeed or fail based on their ability to acquire and effectively use resources such as money, labor, media attention, and organizational structures.

Statement I - "It is an outcome of rational choice theory."  (Correct)
RMT is influenced by Rational Choice Theory (RCT), which suggests that individuals make decisions based on cost-benefit analysis to maximize their personal gains.
Resource Mobilization Theory argues that people join social movements not because of emotions or grievances alone, but because they see tangible benefits and organized structures that increase their chances of success.

Statement II - "It is based on the assumption that individuals’ actions are motivated randomly, not by any preference."  (Incorrect)
RMT rejects the idea that individuals act randomly. Instead, it assumes that people strategically join movements based on available resources, leadership, and opportunities.
This contradicts the fundamental assumption of Rational Choice Theory, which underpins RMT.

Statement III - "The theory purported to show that the success of a movement depended on the resources available to be used."  (Correct)
The core argument of RMT is that social movements are more likely to succeed when they have access to sufficient resources such as funding, leadership, organization, and public support.
It emphasizes that movements do not emerge spontaneously but require strategic planning and resource allocation.
Thus, both I and III are correct, making option (d) the correct answer.

Information booster:-

 Key Proponents of Resource Mobilization Theory:
John McCarthy and Mayer Zald (1977) are credited with developing the formal theory.
Other scholars include Charles Tilly and Doug McAdam, who expanded on the role of political opportunities in mobilization.

Key Criticisms of RMT:
Critics argue that it downplays the role of ideology, emotions, and grievances in mobilization.
Some scholars argue that grassroots movements without formal resources can still succeed through solidarity and collective identity.