In the book, Tarrow tries to explain the cyclical history of social movements (visible in the form of the protest cycles). He also shows how movements can affect various spheres of life, such as personal lives, policy reforms and political culture.
Tarrow's book explores the recurring patterns in social movements, which he describes through the lens of protest cycles.  He further illustrates how these movements have far-reaching effects on individuals, policies, and the overall political landscape.