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
Born often under another sky, placed in the middle of an always moving scene, himself driven by the irresistible torrent which draws all about him, the American has no time to tie himself to anything, he grows accustomed only to change, and ends by regarding it as the natural state of man. He feels the need of it, more he loves it; for the instability; instead of meaning disaster to him, seems to give birth only to miracles all about him.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the American inclination towards embracing change as a fundamental aspect of life.
Alexis De Tocqueville highlights the unique nature of the American experience, where individuals are continually influenced by a dynamic and ever-changing environment. Rather than resisting change, Americans adapt to it, finding beauty and opportunity in the instability around them. This perspective suggests that change is not merely a challenge to be overcome, but rather a fundamental aspect of existence that can lead to positive outcomes and 'miracles'.
Themes
ChangeAdaptationGrowthInstabilityOpportunity
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about embracing new challenges at work.
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.
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Religion, which never intervenes directly in the government of American society, should therefore be considered as the first of their political institutions
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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.
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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.
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