Pay them and they will come.
I see them as pretty varied and multi-faceted.
There are the democrats and their politicians that try and rope OWS in and make them their herd/tool. Some republicans have tried to do that with the TEA Party.
The Unions tried to make use of OWS as well. They were successful to some extent. The Unions didn't bother with the TEA Party because we aren't anywhere near as gullible or close to their hearts desire.
I've read from people here on FR that OWS had many homeless booger in for whatever scraps they good take in, more parasitic than supporters. Funny, some of the rich 1% rapper sorts were parasitic, too. That was rich and punny. :p
There are some who are informed and really believe in some of the carp they spout. I disagree vehemently but as long as they are peaceful and respectful, gopher it. At least they are standing for something they strongly believe--even if I hate what they stand for.
There were some young people who didn't know beans of what was really happening and didn't really care but they wanted to be part of something big for their generation, like Woodstock or Haight-Ashbury. Something to define them and put them in history, too.
Some older folk joined in for 'glory days' and some were just plain followers.
Yes, and there was the money aspect and I can't say I don't see some of that played off the TEA Party, either.