One Step Closer to a Leninist Revolution in France in 1968: The Communists Back Down
Yutaka Okuyama, Ph.D.

Abstract
This study observes French communist actions in relation to the social movement of 1968, especially how the communists defined their behavioral principle in order to satisfy a variety of components as well as to increase their party support. Sticking with their own tradition is the fundamental behavioral mechanism of political groups. However, a favorable outcome does not necessarily result from retaining traditional values. Thus, groups try to incorporate some new elements to encourage more flexible behavior. As a result, a conflict between tradition and innovation arises. French communist behavior in the May Movement in 1968 is a showcase for us to observe how difficult it is for an established group to absorb different perspectives and values in order to become a new entity. By the mid-1990s, through further mutations, the PCF, once enjoyed a quarter of votes in the 1950s and 60s, had virtually lost political significance in the French politics.

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