Exploring Biographical Perspectives: A Methodology for Analyzing the Yellow Vest Movement in France (2018-2022)

Olivier Filleule - University of Lausanne
Exploring Biographical Perspectives: A Methodology for Analyzing the Yellow Vest Movement in France (2018-2022)

Abstract
The MYF project offers a localized analysis of the Yellow Vest movement, focusing on the biographical impact of political events and activism. This research seeks to determine whether participation in a significant social movement leads to lasting changes in the worldviews and modes of engagement among working-class individuals.

We propose a mixed-methods approach rooted in a processual framework, aimed at constructing a collective biography that captures the diverse life trajectories of the Yellow Vests, both before their involvement and during the challenges posed by the movement, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our methodology includes a typological framework based on life calendars and sequence analysis that enhances the analysis of a corpus of interviews conducted between 2019 and 2022, featuring individuals representative of each identified type. We conclude by discussing the strengths and limitations of this approach, providing insights for future research.