The article examines the history of the origin and diversity of approaches to understanding the phenomenon of social movements. An outline of many aspects of contemporary social movements phenomenon, its political, economic and social sources is presented using the example of Islamism. The phenomenon of Islamism is compared with other social movements and the context of its development. Using Islamist movement as evidence general patterns characteristic of social movements are identified. Islamist movement is examined in the context of a network approach, with its interdisciplinary issues and historical overview of the methodology. Recommendations are given to improve the anti-terrorism policies and methods of neutralization of global social challenges, risks and threats Islamism and international terrorism constitute.