Richard Albert wants to know what happened to our commitment to the democratic revolution, and I share his frustrations and his befuddlement. Indeed, I might phrase the question more broadly than he has, and ask precisely what has become of our commitment to democratic rule, however brought about. Contemporary events in the Arab world leave one more confused than ever as to America’s understanding of its own role in supporting democratic orders. This is a matter that deserves more attention than it has been receiving. I consider Professor Albert’s contribution important, and helpful in advancing the discussion in a positive direction. I only hope in these few pages to expound upon the ideas he has presented, and extend them into directions which he may not have anticipated, indeed which he might disclaim, but which must command greater consideration. In particular, I want to explore a central irony in our times concerning the externally imposed democratic revolution.