The so-called Arab Spring is creating an intellectual divide that threatens any sensible understanding of the turmoil engulfing several Arab countries.
While it is widely understood that revolutions aim to overthrow political structures and to change the social order and power paradigm within any given society, there is still no single, inclusive understanding of what actually constitutes a revolution. Nor is there any consensus as to what a revolution is supposed to achieve.
An ordinary Egyptian is likely to determine his/her take on revolution from various angles: measurable economic advancement or lack thereof; the ability to voice an opinion without fear of censorship or retaliation; the right to participate in collective action, and influence the overall direction of his/her country.