Revolution for Regime Change: A Philosophical Analysis of Its Basis and Moral Implications

Abstract

Revolution is a significant factor for regime change. A close observation of any society whose political system has undergone a meaningful change, reveals some forms of revolutionary movements to that effect. Revolution can be described as an earnest yearning for a systemic change in the social and political order of a society, targeted to bring about positive changes in governance. It occurs when people revert against the government for many reasons, including a tyrannical, authoritarian, and oppressive rule that rigs the people out of value and relevance. Revolution, therefore, is a way citizens respond to the government; it is a mark of responsibility and sensitivity of dissatisfied citizens. It is not about violence and breakdown of law and order, but rather the creation of opportunity for the realization of citizens' common good and national development through the removal of irresponsible government and the institution of good and responsible leadership. This paper is therefore a philosophical analysis of the relevance of revolution for regime change. It argues that revolution is one of the ways of removing a tyrannical government that has shown with impunity reckless manifestation of gross marginalization, insensitivity to the plights of the people, corruption, and leadership ineptitude, to engender good governance and national development. While discussing the moral implications of revolution, the paper concludes, as, against the view of many, that revolution is morally justified as it brings about changes in the socio-political, economic, and cultural institutions of a society.