Arevolution from above refers to major political and social changes that are imposed by anélite on the population it dominates. It usually occurs in urban areas in a capital city. By contrast, the plain term "revolution" suggests that pressure from below is a major driving force in events, even if other social groups cooperate with—or ultimately capture—the movement. The phrase "revolution from above" was coined by the Spanish writerJoaquín Costa (1846-1911) in the 19th century.[1] In contrast, a "revolution from below" refers to agrassroots campaign against élites.Johann Gottlieb Fichte advocated theright of revolution, particularly from above rather than below.[2]
