Institutionalization of the Revolutionary Movement

Abstract

Institutionalizing a revolutionary movement appears to be the most critical phase in the revolutionary transformation of a people. Revolutionary mass ecstasy, based on a vision of complete equality and liberty, sooner or later has to face reality and — within it — to prove its vigour, or else it will be compelled to cede the initiative to restoration, which more often than not accepts the task of re-equilibration. This is a time of lost illusions, the time when the ‘revolution eats its children’ and there is a quiet disclaiming of original revolutionary ideals. This is, of course, no betrayal but only a withdrawal into which the leaders are forced if they want to save as much as is salvable. ‘One step back and two steps forward’ becomes the motto and morale of the leading elite.