"Color" Revolutions

This phenomenon of "color" revolutions in former communist states and current Muslim theocracies is one that harkens back not the the American Revolution, but Ghandi. The "color" revolutions are for the most part peaceful, the use of protest to overthrow a government corrupt and unresponsive to its people. The American Revolution was incredibly violent, beginning with acts of subterfuge instead of public proclamations.

While there is no doubt that the ideal of democracy, of which America is still the best model, is a huge influence in the expectations these people have as they look to their government, they are not looking to use force or other methods that have ruled civil unrest in the past.

Why? Why are these masses not resorting to violence? Why are they not sinking to the bottom in order to gain control?

The Washington Post states that the presence and organization enacted by NGOs is a factor in the progression of these revolutions.

OR maybe...

Is there an unintended consequence to the rise in terrorism this past decade? Are people so frightened of violence that they seek out more productive ways to have their voices heard? While America battles the insurgency, and Europe faces constant threat of buses and trains used as bombs, do these "developing" countries seek a more peaceful route in order to prevent such acts on their land?

So many participants are former states under the Soviet Union; and they have seen how Chechnya has suffered due to the tactics they chose. Maybe a conscience decision has been made here. NGOs can organize all they want, but if the masses seek violent means, there is only so much influence outsiders can exert.

Everyone discusses the spread of terrorism; how so many young people see the attention receive and this encourages them to join a violent organization. This discussion is incredibly relevant, and more resources should be guided towards preventing this spread.

But maybe not everyone is at risk -- maybe many are seeing the violence and turning their backs.

What a positive thought.