A Crisis era begins with a catalyst—a startling event (or sequence of events) that produces a sudden shift in mood. ■ Once catalyzed, a society achieves a regeneracy—a new counterentropy that reunifies and reenergizes civic life. ■ The regenerated society propels toward a climax—a crucial moment that confirms the death of the old order and birth of the new. ■ The climax culminates in a resolution—a triumphant or tragic conclusion that separates the winners from losers, resolves the big public questions, and establishes the new order.
