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
One has freedom as the principal means of action; the other has servitude. Their . . . paths [are] diverse; nevertheless, each seems called by some secret design of Providence one day to hold in its hands the destinies of half the world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote contrasts the concepts of freedom and servitude, suggesting that both have significant roles in shaping the future.
Alexis De Tocqueville’s quote examines the dual paths of freedom and servitude, highlighting how they may seem opposite yet are intertwined in their impact on the world. He suggests that despite these different conditions of existence, both paths are destined to influence the destinies of nations and peoples, perhaps implying that history has a design that transcends individual circumstances.
Themes
FreedomServitudeDestinyProvidenceAction
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about democracy, one might reference this quote to illustrate the significance of freedom in shaping societies.
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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