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
A long war almost always places nations in this sad alternative: that their defeat delivers them to destruction and their triumph to despotism.
Interpretation
What this quote means
War often forces nations into a position where they face either destruction or oppressive rule, regardless of the outcome.
Alexis De Tocqueville highlights the bleak reality of prolonged warfare, suggesting that nations caught in extended conflicts may find themselves in a grave predicament. Whether they emerge victorious or face defeat, the consequences are dire: defeat may lead to devastation, while victory could result in authoritarian rule. This reflection underscores the heavy costs of war and the complex moral implications tied to the outcomes of military engagements.
Themes
WarDestructionDespotismNationsConflict
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about military intervention, a speaker might use this quote to illustrate the risks involved.
More from Alexis De Tocqueville
All quotes βDemocratic 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.
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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