Alexis de Tocqueville Quotes
Most popular Alexis de Tocqueville Quotes
The power of the periodical press is second only to that of the people.
In a revolution, as in a novel, the most difficult part to invent is the end.
History is a gallery of pictures in which there are few originals and many copies.
There are many men of principle in both parties in America, but there is no party of principle.
As the past has ceased to throw its light upon the future, the mind of man wanders in obscurity.
Americans rightly think their patriotism is a sort of religion strengthened by practical service.
The health of a democratic society may be measured by the quality of functions performed by private citizens.
The real cause, the effective one, that makes men lose power is that they have become unworthy to exercise it.
America is great because America is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.
The genius of democracies is seen not only in the great number of new words introduced but even more in the new ideas they express.
We succeed in enterprises which demand the positive qualities we possess, but we excel in those which can also make use of our defects.
The surface of American society is covered with a layer of democratic paint, but from time to time one can see the old aristocratic colors breaking through.
If I were asked to what the singular prosperity and growing strength of the Americans ought mainly to be attributed, I should reply: to the superiority of their women.
What is most important for democracy is not that great fortunes should not exist, but that great fortunes should not remain in the same hands. In that way they do not form a class.
What do men need in order to remain free? A taste for freedom. Do not ask me to analyze that sublime taste; it can only be felt. It has a place in every heart which God has prepared to receive it; it fills and inflames it.
