Non-democratic regimes always need to mobilize their people against external enemies in order to maintain internal stability.

As soon as people become a little less fearful, they will also begin demanding more freedom.

Believe me, the drug of freedom is universally potent.

My optimism is not based primarily on the successful march of democracy in recent times but rather is based on the experience of having lived in a fear society and studied the mechanics of tyranny that sustain such a society.

Unfortunately, little attention was paid to how Arafat ruled. In fact, some saw the harsh and repressive nature of Arafat's regime as actually bolstering the prospects for peace.

The central premise behind Oslo was that if Arafat were given enough legitimacy, territory, weapons and money, he would use his power to fight terror and make peace with Israel.

Those who warned that Gorbachev was being put under too much pressure were wrong.