Revolutions – Appendix 9- The Second Wave

Intro

In this episode of the “Revolutions” podcast, the host explores the concept of the second wave in revolutions. After a revolutionary wave, divisions among revolutionaries emerge, particularly between moderates and radicals. The conflicts between these two groups can escalate into a more radical second wave. The episode delves into the different types of radicalism, the challenges faced by post-revolutionary leaders, and the consolidation and settling of a revolution.

Main Takeaways

Divisions Among Revolutionaries

• After a revolutionary wave, inherent divisions among revolutionaries emerge.
• One of the most dependable splits is between moderates and radicals.
• Moderates often wind up in key positions of authority in the early stages of a revolutionary regime.
• Conflict between radicals and moderates can escalate into a second, more radical wave.

Types of Radicalism

• Radicalism can be divided into radicalism of means and radicalism of ends.
• Radicalism of means is a willingness to engage in any strategy or tactic to achieve political objectives.
• Radicalism of ends is a desire for complete societal reordering after an apocalyptic year zero.
• Moderation of means and ends entails limits on what one is willing to do and a cautious imagination about what is possible.

Post-Revolutionary Leaders and Challenges

• Post-revolutionary leaders are typically drawn from the old ruling class and tend to be moderate in their goals.
• These leaders are materially comfortable and respectable, and have reputations made before the revolution.
• The first batch of moderate leaders have just passed the required where they were quite radical on the question of means.
• Post-revolutionary leaders must serve two masters, the revolution and Leviathan, which demands liberty and order, respectively.

Consolidation and Settling of a Revolution

• Consolidating and settling the revolution involves crackdowns, purges, imprisonment, exile, and executions for those on the wrong side of the revolutionary government.
• The revolutionary government must establish a monopoly on violent force.
• Late stage processes in a revolution often lead to authoritarian dictatorship.
• “The most common result of any revolution is authoritarian dictatorship” – Speaker
• The use of violent force is necessary for a revolutionary government to maintain power – Speaker

Summary

Divisions Among Revolutionaries

After a revolutionary wave, divisions among revolutionaries become apparent. One of the most common splits is between moderates and radicals. Moderates often assume positions of authority in the early stages of a revolutionary regime. However, conflicts between radicals and moderates can escalate into a more radical second wave.

Types of Radicalism

Radicalism can be categorized into radicalism of means and radicalism of ends. Radicalism of means refers to a willingness to employ any strategy or tactic to achieve political objectives. Radicalism of ends involves a desire for complete societal reordering after an apocalyptic year zero. In contrast, moderation of means and ends entails setting limits on one’s actions and having a cautious imagination about what is possible.

Post-Revolutionary Leaders and Challenges

Post-revolutionary leaders are typically drawn from the old ruling class and tend to have moderate goals. These leaders, who were once quite radical on the question of means, now find themselves in positions of authority. They must navigate the demands of the revolution and the need for order. This balancing act can be challenging, especially when the political and economic systems are in disarray.

Consolidation and Settling of a Revolution

Consolidating and settling a revolution involves the use of force to maintain power. This often includes crackdowns, purges, imprisonment, exile, and even executions for those who oppose the revolutionary government. The establishment of a monopoly on violent force is crucial for maintaining control. However, late-stage processes in a revolution can lead to the rise of authoritarian dictatorship.

Conclusion

The second wave in revolutions is characterized by the divisions between moderates and radicals. Post-revolutionary leaders face challenges in balancing the demands of the revolution and the need for order. The consolidation and settling of a revolution often involve the use of force and can lead to authoritarian dictatorship. Understanding these dynamics is crucial in comprehending the complexities of revolutionary movements.