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
Not only does democracy make every man forget his ancestors, but also clouds their view of their descendants and isolates them from their contemporaries. Each man is for ever thrown back on himself alone, and there is danger that he may be shut up in the solitude of his own heart.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Democracy can lead individuals to prioritize personal autonomy over social connections, ultimately isolating them.
In this quote, Alexis De Tocqueville reflects on the nature of democracy and its impact on individuals' relationships with their past, present, and future. He suggests that the emphasis on individualism in democratic societies can cause people to lose sight of their familial and communal ties, leading to a sense of isolation and self-absorption. This solitary existence may result in a disconnection from both one’s heritage and one’s community, potentially causing emotional distress.
Themes
DemocracyIndividualismIsolationSocietyCommunity
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about political systems and their effects on personal identity, this quote can be used to highlight the potential downsides of democracy.
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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