1984 There are only four ways in which a

There are only four ways in which a ruling group can fall from power.

Either it is conquered from without or it governs so inefficiently that the masses are stirred to revolt or it allows a strong and discontented Middle group to come into being or it loses its own self confidence and willingness to govern.

These causes do not operate singly and as a rule all four of them are present in some degree.

A ruling class which could guard against all of them would remain in power permanently.

Ultimately the determining factors is the mental attitude of the ruling class itself.