Revolution Triggers explores the multifaceted origins of revolutions, arguing they arise from the convergence of eroded political legitimacy, stark economic inequality, and fractured social cohesion. The book posits that revolutions aren't spontaneous outbursts but rather the culmination of deep-seated systemic failures. Consider, for example, how a government perceived as corrupt can lose the trust of its citizens, or how vast wealth disparities can fuel resentment and instability.

The book examines historical events like the French and Russian Revolutions to illustrate these principles, offering a sociological perspective. It progresses by first defining revolution and then systematically analyzing the erosion of political legitimacy, the exacerbation of economic inequality, and the breakdown of social cohesion across different chapters. This approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of political, economic, and social factors, providing a framework for assessing the risk of revolution in various societies.