Quota Movement Bangladesh, July 2024: Theory and Reflection

Abstract

The study explores the effect of “Behavioral and Cognitive Theories” on student involvement in the Bangladesh Quota Movement of July 2024, a crucial socio-political event promoting equitable job opportunities in government sectors. The research aims to conduct a comparative investigation of the behavioral and cognitive factors that shaped student actions inside the movement. This study used a convergent parallel mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from online questionnaires with qualitative insights from Focus-Group Discussions (FGD). The investigation, including 250 students engaged in the movement, evaluated the effects of major motivators such as peer influence, reinforcement, beliefs in justice, and cognitive development aspects. Thematic analysis of Focus-Group Discussions (FGD) with 50 participants provided an in-depth understanding of the cognitive evaluations and behavioral stimuli that facilitated collective mobilization. The overall analysis reveals that the cognitive level affects about 52.7% of individuals more than external factors. Studies have shown that social reinforcement and external stimuli are essential for initial engagement, but cognitive theory—particularly students' perceptions of fairness, injustice, and personal relevance—is more significant for sustained participation. This paper enhances the existing research on social movements by highlighting the interplay between behavioral and cognitive factors, providing essential insights into student-led initiatives.