The aspect of American society is animated, because men and things are always changing; but it is monotonous, because all the changes are alike.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
Americans are so enamored of equality that they would rather be equal in slavery than unequal in freedom.... The subjection of individuals will increase amongst democratic nations, not only in the same proportion as their equality, but in the same proportion as their ignorance.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that the desire for equality can lead individuals to accept subjugation, favoring equality in oppression over the freedom that comes with inequality.
Alexis De Tocqueville's quote reflects on the paradox of equality, particularly in democratic societies, where the pursuit of equal status can lead to conformity and the acceptance of oppression. It warns that as societies strive for equality, particularly through the lens of ignorance, they may inadvertently choose subjugation rather than embracing the complexities of freedom, which can naturally involve inequalities.
Themes
EqualityFreedomSubjugationDemocracyIgnorance
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about social justice, this quote can illustrate the dangers of prioritizing equality over individual freedom.
More from Alexis De Tocqueville
All quotes →Democratic communities have a natural taste for freedom: left to themselves they will seek it, cherish it, and view any deprivation of it with regret. But for equality their passion is ardent, insatiable, incessant, invincible: they call for equality in freedom; and if they cannot obtain that, they still call for equality in slavery.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
Religion, which never intervenes directly in the government of American society, should therefore be considered as the first of their political institutions
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
The surface of American society is covered with a layer of democratic paint, but from time to time one can see the old aristocratic colours breaking through.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
The Indian knew how to live without wants, to suffer without complaint, and to die singing.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
Grant me thirty years of equal division of inheritances and a free press, and I will provide you with a republic.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
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