It's time to bury the unreal, failed 'realism' of those who have long thought that dictators brought stability.

For decades, the Arab states have seemed exceptions to the laws of politics and human nature. While liberty expanded in many parts of the globe, these nations were left behind, their 'freedom deficit' signaling the political underdevelopment that accompanied many other economic and social maladies.

Enlightened despots are mythical creatures; real despots seem more interested in stealing money or installing their sons after them.

Elliott Abrams Quotes