Lesson for Conservatives: Run on Reform, Not Revolution

In commenting on the sparks that would light the fuse of the French Revolution, Alexis de Tocqueville noted that while a “disorderly and unwholesome” form of liberty “prepared the French to overthrow despotism, it made them perhaps less apt than any other people to establish in its place the peaceful and unfettered rule of law.”

After the GOP’s poor performance in Tuesday’s midterm elections, its disheartened supporters would do well to heed this lesson.

About the Author

Adam M. Carrington

Adam M. Carrington is an associate professor of politics at Hillsdale College.

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In commenting on the sparks that would light the fuse of the French Revolution, Alexis de Tocqueville noted that while a “disorderly and unwholesome” form of liberty “prepared the French to overthrow despotism, it made them perhaps less apt than any other people to establish in its place the peaceful and unfettered rule of law.”

After the GOP’s poor performance in Tuesday’s midterm elections, its disheartened supporters would do well to heed this lesson.