| Argument |
Explanation |
| Equality of Conditions |
Tocqueville argued that the gradual development of equality of social conditions was the great driving force behind the democratic movement in America. He believed that this equality of conditions was a fundamental and irreversible fact of modern societies. |
| The Tyranny of the Majority |
Tocqueville warned about the potential danger of the "tyranny of the majority," where the majority could impose its will on the minority. He believed that this could be a threat to individual liberty and minority rights, and that it was essential to have constitutional safeguards and a system of checks and balances to protect against this danger. |
| The Role of Associations |
Tocqueville saw voluntary associations as a key feature of American democracy. He argued that these associations, such as civic organizations, religious groups, and labor unions, served as a counterweight to the power of the state and helped to foster a sense of civic engagement and participation. |
| The Importance of Religion |
Tocqueville recognized the important role that religion played in American society. He believed that religion helped to promote moral values, social stability, and a sense of community, which were essential for the success of democracy. |
| The Decentralization of Power |
Tocqueville was impressed by the decentralized nature of American democracy, with power distributed among federal, state, and local governments. He saw this as a safeguard against the concentration of power and a way to ensure that power remained close to the people. |
| The Importance of Civil Society |
Tocqueville emphasized the importance of a strong and vibrant civil society, which he saw as a crucial component of a healthy democracy. He believed that civil society organizations, such as voluntary associations and the press, played a vital role in fostering civic engagement and holding the government accountable. |
| Chapter |
Quote |
| Introduction |
"The great advantage of the Americans is that they have arrived at a state of democracy without having to endure a democratic revolution." |
| Volume 1, Part 2, Chapter 8 |
"When the past no longer illuminates the future, the spirit walks in darkness." |
| Volume 2, Part 1, Chapter 2 |
"I do not know if the people of the United States would vote for superior men if they ran for office, but there can be no doubt that such men do not run." |
| Volume 2, Part 2, Chapter 2 |
"The health of a democratic society may be measured by the quality of functions performed by private citizens." |
| Volume 2, Part 2, Chapter 4 |
"Americans of all ages, all conditions, and all dispositions constantly form associations. They have not only commercial and manufacturing companies, in which all take part, but associations of a thousand other kinds, religious, moral, serious, futile, extensive or restricted, enormous or diminutive." |
