From Thought to Action
Developing a Social Justice Orientation
(Second Edition)
©2024, 260 pages
Paperback list price: $41.95
Cognella Direct Ebook: $37.95
You save $4 (10%)
Learn about all formats available for adoption
Bookstore Managers: contact orders@cognella.com to place an order
Watch Amy Aldridge Sanford talk about what's new and notable in the second edition of From Thought to Action here.
From Thought to Action: Developing a Social Justice Orientation empowers readers to successfully navigate their social justice journeys and channel their increased consciousness into direct action. The book provides robust historic, cultural, and social contexts, assists readers in managing the discomfort that often accompanies raised consciousness, and offers step-by-step instructions for initiating social justice campaigns and projects.
The text examines various types of direct action, the art of dialoguing through disagreement, the risks and rewards associated with activism, the importance of effective leadership and collaboration, and activism in the wake of significant social and political issues, including police brutality and the COVID-19 pandemic. Readers learn about the challenges and successes of activists past and present, and are encouraged to recognize the struggles and achievements that define their own journeys.
The second edition includes a new chapter on allyship and an appendix related to speech preparation and delivery. It features more global examples of activism, as well as additional experiences from Asian American communities within the United States.
From Thought to Action is ideal for communication seminars and other courses such as and Communication and Social Advocacy, Social Work Practice, and Social Justice across a wide variety of departments including Communication, Social Work, Public Administration and Policy, and Women's and Gender Studies.
From Thought to Action: Developing a Social Justice Orientation empowers readers to successfully navigate their social justice journeys and channel their increased consciousness into direct action. The book provides robust historic, cultural, and social contexts, assists readers in managing the discomfort that often accompanies raised consciousness, and offers step-by-step instructions for initiating social justice campaigns and projects.
The text examines various types of direct action, the art of dialoguing through disagreement, the risks and rewards associated with activism, the importance of effective leadership and collaboration, and activism in the wake of significant social and political issues, including police brutality and the COVID-19 pandemic. Readers learn about the challenges and successes of activists past and present, and are encouraged to recognize the struggles and achievements that define their own journeys.
The second edition includes a new chapter on allyship and an appendix related to speech preparation and delivery. It features more global examples of activism, as well as additional experiences from Asian American communities within the United States.
From Thought to Action is ideal for communication seminars and other courses such as and Communication and Social Advocacy, Social Work Practice, and Social Justice across a wide variety of departments including Communication, Social Work, Public Administration and Policy, and Women's and Gender Studies.
Amy Aldridge (Ph.D., University of Iowa) is a professor of communication and vice provost for academic programs at Middle Tennessee State University.
Other Cognella titles by Amy Aldridge Sanford:Formats and Bulk Order Pricing for Confirmed Adoptions
Publisher Direct Versions — Available through the Cognella Student Store for confirmed adoptions |
||
|
$37.95
Best Value! |
Publisher Direct Ebook | Publisher Direct ebooks are available in your Cognella account immediately after purchase and provide access for 180 days. Our ebooks run on VitalSource and RedShelf with perpetual/annual options available. |
|
$44.95
Shipping Included! |
Publisher Direct Paperback | These special, discounted paperback editions are sold exclusively through the Cognella Student Store (store.cognella.com) for confirmed adoptions. They are not available through other retailers. The books are printed on demand, do not have an ISBN, and are not intended for resale, which results in savings we pass along to students. Most Publisher Direct Paperbacks also come with free, immediate access to the first 30% of the ebook and shipping included. |
Higher Education Bookstore Pricing — These suggested retail prices include a total projected mark-up of 25% |
||
|
Inclusive Access Available!
|
Ebook 979-8-8233-1918-8 |
We partner with VitalSource, Kortext, and RedShelf to provide day-one access to students through campus bookstores. Bookstores and these vendors share in the total projected mark-up. Learn more about Inclusive Access at cognella.com/inclusive-access. Contact us for details. |
| $41.95 | Paperback 978-1-7935-8551-6 |
Standard paperback version. Contact us for course adoptions; also available for individual purchase through national wholesalers and retailers — and from our website directly — see Purchase button above. |
| See more options | ||
| Other Formats Talk to a rep for details |
Other formats (perforated, hardcover, etc.) may be available. Contact us for course adoptions; specialty formats are not available for individual purchase. | |
Adopting instructors will receive a sample syllabus, a list of chapter activities and all the tables and figures from the book, four grading rubrics, a learning contract, and PowerPoint lectures for each chapter, the appendix, and the group assignment.
"Written in an honest, warm, and frank voice, From Thought to Action inspires all of us on the journey toward an improved collective. This textbook reads like a can’t-put-it-down nonfiction, offering a broad and inclusive range of characters. Sanford moves us to survey our past and recover little-told histories, examine paradigm-shifting turning points, and envision an intentional future embracing the connectedness of the human experience. In the classroom, and out, this meaningful and moving text is a rarity. Through clearly written frames, examples, and explanations, this book radiates sincerity while dexterously guiding us in our social justice activism."
Debra L. Iba, Senior Instructor of Communication Studies, Texas Christian University
“I have been anticipating this second edition since I used the first edition of this book in my Social Justice communication course. Dr. Sanford writes in an engaging style that students can relate to, offers compelling narratives from both the author’s personal experiences with social justice activism and historical perspectives, and provides clear action steps that students can take in their own journeys in social justice activism. My students enjoyed the first edition, particularly the chapters on taking action and engaging in dialogue with others. A wonderful resource for any course focused on social justice activism.”
Irene Grau, Lecturer of Communication, California State University, Los Angeles
“From Thought to Action is an adaptable guide for those new to social change, and those looking to refine their voice in movements they are already active in. What separates this book from others is that it is not about one movement, or even one perspective. Instead, it is an essential tool for those who want to learn how to communicate for effectively and build systems of compassion and meaningful change. With opportunities for personal reflection, and activities to build the skills necessary to discussing topics that can be socially charged, this book should be in libraries both personal and academic.”
Michelle Dusseau, Associate Lecturer of Communication, University of Central Florida
“The title of Dr. Amy Aldridge Sanford’s book, From Thought to Action, has become a personal mantra in the development of my own social justice orientation. As a "forever student" of Amy's, I am proud to share her text in my "Social Justice Literacies" class because it serves as an honest and reflective exemplar of how to embark on the steps of embracing one's personal history. Her book resembles more of a guidebook than a textbook in its intentional review of history, leadership, and the risks/rewards of social justice activism. She inspires action beyond just its reading.”
Lara Searcy, Associate Professor of English, Northeastern State University
“Aldridge Sanford’s book not only takes students on social justice journey, but also provides a framework to help ‘people manage the discomfort that accompanies a newly raised social justice consciousness’ (p. xiv). At a time when many students are reflecting critically on what they can do to be better social justice activists, this book makes a commitment to harnessing their passion. It is organized to not only provide students with a historic, cultural, and societal background, but also to create a framework toward taking meaningful action.”
Tim McKenna-Buchanan, Associate Professor of Communication Studies & Director of Honors Program, Manchester University
Praise for the First Edition
"This is an excellent text that fills a niche not currently addressed in the market. This text is the most promising work I have reviewed in a l-o-n-g time. A must read read for anyone who wants to make society a better place for everyone."
Pat Arneson, Professor of Communication and Rhetorical Studies, Duquesne University
"This book fills a major literature gap for activism. The book provides context and application that helps the reader understand the past, reflection on self, and obtain tools for the future. The exposure to different social issues and lessons learned from activists is a major benefit. I think the book will influence student's interest in learning and becoming activists."
Laura D. Boren, Vice President for Student Engagement & Success, Georgia Southwestern State University
"This is a must read for young adults who are fed up with the social injustices and want to create change. Specifically, this text can teach privileged people how to be an ally and advocate and use your privilege to make this world a better place!"
Jennifer Martin Emami, Doctoral Candidate in Women's Studies, Texas Woman's University
"I am one of the people who needed this book. I contacted the author for advice in situations. I agree with the necessity of the book. The book is easy to read and hard to put down. It gives step-by-step procedures to get started and how to overcome obstacles. I could see this being a book students would actually read in class. As a faculty member, sometimes I do not always know how to help students begin the next steps of their social justice steps. This book provides excellent details on how people feel during the process as well as actual steps to take to go through the process. The examples that were provided explained the history as well as current situations to help the reader have a better understanding of social justice."
Kimberly M. Weismann, Associate Professor, Williston State College
"I wish this book was around when I was an undergraduate student. I heard many of the messages based on the courses I took, but having this text as a reference would have been helpful. The author is correct that no other books like this, not focused on one specific type of activism, currently exist. This is important work."
Elaina M. Ross, Instructor of Media Studies, Northeastern State University
"I truly find this book to be an amazing resources and fun text to read. This text provides a history and valuable direct application. The use of this text in the classroom will benefit students by opening their minds and giving them space to find their own voice and viewpoint. Dr. Sanford presents a dynamic and engaging look into what it means to be an activist. Her inclusion of both history and application provide the reader countless moments of inspiration as well as the tools to put the desire to make change happen."
Malynnda A. Johnson, Assistant Professor of Health Communication, Indiana State University
"I applaud Dr. Sanford's goals for this book, and believe that such a book is long overdue. This book is written generally enough so that it will be a great fit for Dr. Sanford's intended audience no matter what their discipline. I was especially impressed because it is clearly about social justice, unfettered by attachment to a particular discipline (sociology, labor rights, as examples), but usable in a variety of academic disciplines and genres. Dr. Sanford's book not only provides the necessary historic, cultural, and social contexts for this important work in social justice, but it serves as a step by step manual on how to get started in a social justice project. Activists and organizers will find this book a 'must read.'"
Deborah Cunningham Breede, Professor of Communication, Media, and Culture, Coastal Carolina University
"Professor Aldridge Sanford has put together a primer on social justice and activism that will stand the test of time. She has judiciously synthesized a complex assortment of historical, sociological, and political information in a way that is both accessible and useful for undergraduate students. This text will be of interest to any instructor or reader committed to learning more about the theory and practice of activism in various forms. Her insights are thought-provoking, attractive, and straightforward. It makes for enjoyable scholarly reading and reminds us that social activism, competently exercised, entails a good deal of thought, reflection, and dialogical engagement."
Justin D. Walton, Associate Professor of Communication Studies, Cameron University
"I think that the idea behind the book is excellent. The goals of helping students to 'feel less isolated' and to learn how to 'move from thought to action' are very commendable. It is appropriate for this to come from a communication perspective since communication is fundamental to any social action."
Alberto Gonzalez, Professor of Communication, Bowling Green State University
"I appreciate the passion behind the writer's intentions and her overarching desire to provide students with a guide for getting more involved in civic life."
Tabitha Hart, Assistant Professor of Communication Studies, San Jose State University
Debra L. Iba, Senior Instructor of Communication Studies, Texas Christian University
“I have been anticipating this second edition since I used the first edition of this book in my Social Justice communication course. Dr. Sanford writes in an engaging style that students can relate to, offers compelling narratives from both the author’s personal experiences with social justice activism and historical perspectives, and provides clear action steps that students can take in their own journeys in social justice activism. My students enjoyed the first edition, particularly the chapters on taking action and engaging in dialogue with others. A wonderful resource for any course focused on social justice activism.”
Irene Grau, Lecturer of Communication, California State University, Los Angeles
“From Thought to Action is an adaptable guide for those new to social change, and those looking to refine their voice in movements they are already active in. What separates this book from others is that it is not about one movement, or even one perspective. Instead, it is an essential tool for those who want to learn how to communicate for effectively and build systems of compassion and meaningful change. With opportunities for personal reflection, and activities to build the skills necessary to discussing topics that can be socially charged, this book should be in libraries both personal and academic.”
Michelle Dusseau, Associate Lecturer of Communication, University of Central Florida
“The title of Dr. Amy Aldridge Sanford’s book, From Thought to Action, has become a personal mantra in the development of my own social justice orientation. As a "forever student" of Amy's, I am proud to share her text in my "Social Justice Literacies" class because it serves as an honest and reflective exemplar of how to embark on the steps of embracing one's personal history. Her book resembles more of a guidebook than a textbook in its intentional review of history, leadership, and the risks/rewards of social justice activism. She inspires action beyond just its reading.”
Lara Searcy, Associate Professor of English, Northeastern State University
“Aldridge Sanford’s book not only takes students on social justice journey, but also provides a framework to help ‘people manage the discomfort that accompanies a newly raised social justice consciousness’ (p. xiv). At a time when many students are reflecting critically on what they can do to be better social justice activists, this book makes a commitment to harnessing their passion. It is organized to not only provide students with a historic, cultural, and societal background, but also to create a framework toward taking meaningful action.”
Tim McKenna-Buchanan, Associate Professor of Communication Studies & Director of Honors Program, Manchester University
Praise for the First Edition
"This is an excellent text that fills a niche not currently addressed in the market. This text is the most promising work I have reviewed in a l-o-n-g time. A must read read for anyone who wants to make society a better place for everyone."
Pat Arneson, Professor of Communication and Rhetorical Studies, Duquesne University
"This book fills a major literature gap for activism. The book provides context and application that helps the reader understand the past, reflection on self, and obtain tools for the future. The exposure to different social issues and lessons learned from activists is a major benefit. I think the book will influence student's interest in learning and becoming activists."
Laura D. Boren, Vice President for Student Engagement & Success, Georgia Southwestern State University
"This is a must read for young adults who are fed up with the social injustices and want to create change. Specifically, this text can teach privileged people how to be an ally and advocate and use your privilege to make this world a better place!"
Jennifer Martin Emami, Doctoral Candidate in Women's Studies, Texas Woman's University
"I am one of the people who needed this book. I contacted the author for advice in situations. I agree with the necessity of the book. The book is easy to read and hard to put down. It gives step-by-step procedures to get started and how to overcome obstacles. I could see this being a book students would actually read in class. As a faculty member, sometimes I do not always know how to help students begin the next steps of their social justice steps. This book provides excellent details on how people feel during the process as well as actual steps to take to go through the process. The examples that were provided explained the history as well as current situations to help the reader have a better understanding of social justice."
Kimberly M. Weismann, Associate Professor, Williston State College
"I wish this book was around when I was an undergraduate student. I heard many of the messages based on the courses I took, but having this text as a reference would have been helpful. The author is correct that no other books like this, not focused on one specific type of activism, currently exist. This is important work."
Elaina M. Ross, Instructor of Media Studies, Northeastern State University
"I truly find this book to be an amazing resources and fun text to read. This text provides a history and valuable direct application. The use of this text in the classroom will benefit students by opening their minds and giving them space to find their own voice and viewpoint. Dr. Sanford presents a dynamic and engaging look into what it means to be an activist. Her inclusion of both history and application provide the reader countless moments of inspiration as well as the tools to put the desire to make change happen."
Malynnda A. Johnson, Assistant Professor of Health Communication, Indiana State University
"I applaud Dr. Sanford's goals for this book, and believe that such a book is long overdue. This book is written generally enough so that it will be a great fit for Dr. Sanford's intended audience no matter what their discipline. I was especially impressed because it is clearly about social justice, unfettered by attachment to a particular discipline (sociology, labor rights, as examples), but usable in a variety of academic disciplines and genres. Dr. Sanford's book not only provides the necessary historic, cultural, and social contexts for this important work in social justice, but it serves as a step by step manual on how to get started in a social justice project. Activists and organizers will find this book a 'must read.'"
Deborah Cunningham Breede, Professor of Communication, Media, and Culture, Coastal Carolina University
"Professor Aldridge Sanford has put together a primer on social justice and activism that will stand the test of time. She has judiciously synthesized a complex assortment of historical, sociological, and political information in a way that is both accessible and useful for undergraduate students. This text will be of interest to any instructor or reader committed to learning more about the theory and practice of activism in various forms. Her insights are thought-provoking, attractive, and straightforward. It makes for enjoyable scholarly reading and reminds us that social activism, competently exercised, entails a good deal of thought, reflection, and dialogical engagement."
Justin D. Walton, Associate Professor of Communication Studies, Cameron University
"I think that the idea behind the book is excellent. The goals of helping students to 'feel less isolated' and to learn how to 'move from thought to action' are very commendable. It is appropriate for this to come from a communication perspective since communication is fundamental to any social action."
Alberto Gonzalez, Professor of Communication, Bowling Green State University
"I appreciate the passion behind the writer's intentions and her overarching desire to provide students with a guide for getting more involved in civic life."
Tabitha Hart, Assistant Professor of Communication Studies, San Jose State University
Watch Dr. Amy Aldridge Sanford’s TEDxColePark presentation, “It’s everybody’s fight”: Passive Allyship is Not Enough. During the talk, Dr. Aldridge Sanford addresses perceived barriers to social justice activism, makes a case for urgency, and gives specific advice to passive allies who are ready to become engaged activists.
Watch Dr. Amy Aldridge Sanford’s PowerUp Hero interview, in which she discusses the power of allyship.
Watch the video by author Amy Aldridge Sanford to learn how From Thought to Action guides readers through a journey of reflection, education, and action so they can effectively and authentically advocate for social justice.
Watch Dr. Amy Aldridge Sanford’s PowerUp Hero interview, in which she discusses the power of allyship.
Watch the video by author Amy Aldridge Sanford to learn how From Thought to Action guides readers through a journey of reflection, education, and action so they can effectively and authentically advocate for social justice.
