Final answer:
Protests impact both those in power, who are prompted to address issues, and those not in power, who gain a voice to demand change. Historical events like the Civil Rights Movement and the Arab Spring show the effectiveness of protest in affecting societal and political structures through civic engagement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Protests play a significant role in affecting both those in power and those not in power. For those in power, protests can lead to increased scrutiny, forcing them to address public concerns and possibly enact reforms. This was evident during the Civil Rights Movement, where protests led to significant governmental changes. Conversely, for those not in power, protests serve as a mechanism to voice grievances and demand change. They can leverage modern technology, like during the Arab Spring uprisings, where social media played a critical role in coordinating and raising global awareness for their cause. In both cases, protests provide a form of political participation, seeking justice, equality, democracy, and political accountability.
Moreover, protests give those without traditional forms of power, such as wealth or government positions, the opportunity to influence societal structures and norms. When citizens collectively engage in protests or join interest groups, they increase their capacity to influence government actions, pushing for policies and changes they believe are fair and just. This is a form of civic engagement that allows even those marginalized or without significant resources to sway the direction of governmental policies and create lasting social change.