The rise of social movements since the 1960s was not just a coincidence. Institutions and interest groups pre-exist what has happened throughout history. These historical events helped define politics. Social movements and the power of protest play a vital role in helping the world become a better place and solving the problems of post-materialism. These movements impact governments in changing the way they define policy and change legislation, as well as raising awareness. As time passes and states learn from the injustices of the past, the world can have a better tomorrow. I have argued that the rise of social movements is due to the shift from questions of materialism to those of post-materialism, which has had a huge impact on politics. Post-materialism “describes the degree to which a society places intangible life goals such as personal development and self-esteem above material security.” (Thurik, R & Uhlaner, L, 2004: 2) It is evident that the rise of social movements from materialism issues to post-materialism issues is due to historical events, social networking and globalization. Social movements are created by groups advocating for change that the government does not recognize in elections or address when in power. Protests, institutions and interest groups that support post-materialism issues such as equality, gay and women's rights and animal liberation benefit from historical events. If you look at the history of politics it is clear that there have been many encounters with injustice, inequality and imperialism. Suri further states: “The claims of the international counterculture were not unique. Many of the criticisms of patriarchy, racism, injustice and imperialism they express... middle of paper... are used while others slowly fade away because they didn't have as great an impact. It's interesting to think about how we would define the world and politics today if social movements didn't exist. Would states be on a better path to achieving equality than when slavery existed and people were considered nothing more than chattel to another white person? As social movements continue to grow and allow protest power to exist, the true meaning of democracy is being defined. The way government defines politics must change for a better future to exist for all beings. Social movements help redefine politics in a post-materialist vision. Even today, and with the rise of social movements since the 1960s, the world is not where it should be. It is evident that social movements will continue to grow until peace and prosperity are achieved for all beings.