Detonator Theory

Discipline: Political Science

Theory of insurrection.

Discontented populations, particularly under foreign occupation, are likened to explosive material which requires detonation by some additional action.

This can be provided by trained elites, if necessary entering from abroad.

The theory informed some of the activities of the Allies during World War II.

Also see: foco theory

Source:
David Stafford, Britain and European Resistance 1940-1945 (London, 1979)