Saul David Alinsky American public figure and founder of the 'Third Way' theory Date of Birth: 30.01.1909 Country: USA

1. Saul Alinsky: American Activist and Father of "Third Way" Theory
2. Early Life and Influences
3. A Shift to Social Activism
4. "Rules for Radicals" and the "Third Way"
5. The Industrial Areas Foundation

Saul Alinsky: American Activist and Father of "Third Way" Theory

American activist Saul Alinsky profoundly influenced the tactics and ideologies of 1960s-70s "New Left" and counterculture movements.

Early Life and Influences

Born in 1909 in Chicago to Russian-Jewish immigrants, Alinsky grew up in an orthodox household. Despite his parents' religious devotion, Alinsky rejected rabbinical aspirations at age 12. Archaeology ignited his passion at the University of Chicago, but the Great Depression shattered his professional dreams.

A Shift to Social Activism

Alinsky earned a master's degree in criminology and worked as an investigator. Simultaneously, he immersed himself in the "Congress of Industrial Organizations" (CIO) labor union. Recognizing the transformative power of collective action, Alinsky embarked on a lifelong mission to empower the marginalized.

"Rules for Radicals" and the "Third Way"

Imprisoned briefly in 1960, Alinsky penned "Rules for Radicals," a seminal work outlining his methodology for social change through information and grassroots mobilization. His "third way" theory became the foundation of modern community organizing, fostering collaboration between government, businesses, and residents.

The Industrial Areas Foundation

Alinsky established the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF) to promote his ideas. IAF trained a generation of community leaders, including Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Alinsky's teachings continue to shape American democracy through organizations nationwide.