"...our main point is that regimes (like opposition movements) are not monolithic actors; rather, they are propped up by pillars made up of individuals whose loyalties are malleable and shifting. Whichever side (regime or opposition) is able to divide the opponent from its main pillars of support will ultimately succeed. And nonviolent campaigns have historically had an advantage over violent campaigns in this regard."

(From "Why Civil Resistance Works: The Strategic Logic of Nonviolent Conflict," by Erica Chenoweth and Maria J. Stephan)