Democracy in America, Volume 2

Name: Democracy in America, Volume 2
Author: Alexis de Tocqueville

The second volume of Democracy in America explores the American system of government and its effects on society. Tocqueville examines the relationship between the people and their leaders, arguing that democracy can lead to a tyranny of the majority. He also discusses the role of education, the press, and civil associations in shaping public opinion. Tocqueville critiques the idea of equality, suggesting that it can lead to a lack of individuality and a focus on material possessions. He also explores the concept of liberty, arguing that it is not just the absence of oppression but also the ability to act freely. The volume concludes with an examination of the potential dangers of democracy, including the rise of demagogues and the erosion of civil liberties. Tocqueville argues that a healthy democracy requires a balance between individual rights and collective interests.

By Alexis de Tocqueville · First published 1835 · Genre: Political Science, Sociology, Philosophy · 42 chapters · 64,227 words

First lines

The Americans live in a democratic state of society, which has naturally suggested to them certain laws and a certain political character. This same state of society has, moreover, engendered amongst them a multitude of feelings and opinions which were unknown amongst the elder aristocratic communities of Europe: it has destroyed or modified all the relations which before existed, and established others of a novel kind. The-aspect of civil society has been no less affected by these changes than that of the political world. The former subject has been treated of in the work on the Democracy of America, which I published five years ago; to examine the latter is the object of the present book; but these two parts complete each other, and form one and the same work.

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Democracy in America, Volume 2 is listed on Textopian as an essay by Alexis de Tocqueville, dated 1835 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Alexis de Tocqueville
Date: 1835 CE
Language: English
Genres: Political Science, Sociology, Philosophy, History, Travel Literature
Length: 64,227 words
Structure: 42 chapters, 500 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Political Science — The book provides an in-depth analysis of the political system and democratic principles in America.
Sociology — It examines the social structures and cultural aspects of American society.
Philosophy — The work explores philosophical themes related to democracy and individualism.
History — It offers historical context and insights into the development of American democracy.