James Krapfl, Revolution with a Human Face. Politics, Culture and Community in Czechoslovakia, 1989-1992

A review of a publication which examines why "revolutions always fail", using the example of the 1989 "Velvet Revolution" in Czechoslovakia, which was motivated, as the author concludes, not by a desire to introduce "capitalism", but by a desire to create a regime based on humanity, non-violence, pluralism, dialogue and direct democracy. There were to be regular checks on institutional power and free elections at all levels, not just in politics, but also in workplaces. The only place where this type of democracy has survived in the Czech Republic is in the University system, where Vice-Chancellors and Faculty Deans are still elected by the academic body