Man is not merely an evolution but rather a revolution (G K. Chesterton). On the surface, the words “revolution” and “reform” are equivalent. Both terms refer to making a government more responsive and efficient than it already is. The methods used to achieve the desired results within a power structure of a society must be adequate, compliant with people’s needs since the reaction matters more than the action. It is my strong belief that reforms bring more stability and more positive changes in a society than the overthrow of a government by force (revolution) for several reasons.
Firstly, a reform brings about moderate adjustments. It seeks to improve the system as it stands by making changes in the existing conditions, never creating drastic changes, by no means completely overthrowing a government. Reforms are akin to revolutions, although the latter run brisk and are belligerent. Reforms are flexible, they do not affect the power structure of a country, therefore can be improved, step by step. Any reform can be reversed and eroded later on if it is necessary. For example, during the 1830s, most of the British population was excluded from voting, therefore they had no influence over the members of Parliament. The working-class individuals had to endure poor working conditions and low wages. The reform that came during this period allowing people to vote and improving their working conditions with less working hours and higher payments prevented revolution and had a profoundly positive impact on the people, their happiness as well as their health.
Secondly, nowadays reforms give people the chance to express themselves. The public altogether has their faith in their own hands if they rise against the government. They can choose if whoever is in charge is fair or not, if within a country there are social issues such as poverty, homelessness and if they need to be eradicated. The state has the duty to reform criminals, helping the latter relinquish their immoral behavior. Reforms are limited in terms of power, no real changes occur overnight, therefore reforms provide individuals with security and they gain a sense of power, giving them hope for an improved future, gradually. For example, the population within a country has by vote the power to advance a reform or eradicate it.
Admittedly,  reforms can once in a blue moon remain ineffective or even aggravate a situation. They might create hatred among people, leaving them disorientated. Reforms must be taken into effect carefully, with the approval of the majority, to avoid industrial actions and chaos within the country.
To conclude, reforms represent a flexible way to improve misdemeanors, felonies, people’s working conditions, in general wrong-doings within a society. Revolutions should be perceived as ultimatums, the changes always being radical, bringing chaos and completely toppling a government.

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