Critical juncture theory

Critical juncture theory suggests that key moments or periods of significant change—such as political upheavals, technological innovations, or social movements—open opportunities for fundamental shifts in a society’s direction. These moments create a window where existing structures or policies can be altered, setting a new course that can persist over time. After such junctures, institutions and societal patterns tend to become more stable, making it difficult to change them later. Essentially, critical junctures are pivotal points that shape long-term trajectories by influencing the choices and opportunities available at those times.