Many people have a different view of what constitutes democracy in America, with some reading the book in almost nationalistic terms. Others see Democracy in America as an elaborate hymn to the United States, an ode to the nation’s burgeoning world power and a celebration of the 19th-century greatness. Others still find it as a complex, timely account of American politics and culture. However, no matter the way we view democracy, it remains an important text for understanding American history.
Tocqueville’s Democracy in America, published in 1835, is considered a classic. This book explores the emergence of democracy and its development as a way of life. Tocqueville was fascinated by democracy, and recognized its importance in shaping modern times. Tocqueville analyzed the origins of democratic power and identified its sources of dynamic energy. The results of these studies are still relevant today, even though the American system has undergone dramatic changes.
The first part of Democracy in America captures the growth of the American republic. It also mirrors the evolution of a dynamic political order, a key characteristic of democratic societies. Tocqueville’s travels through the young American republic were vital in shaping his view of democracy and widening his perspective. At the time, Tocqueville and his companion, Gustave de Beaumont, had travelled through the United States, which greatly broadened his view of democracy.
Democracy in America teaches people to question the power of ‘natural’ powers and their motives. It also encourages citizens to question the authority of power and to keep a keen eye on it. Democracy, he said, fosters the belief that democracy is the best way to achieve equality. However, this sentiment is not universally shared by all Americans. The film teaches viewers to consider their own interests when voting. However, Tocqueville argued that this is not a problem, and that the country’s democratic institutions stimulate a passionate desire for equality.
As an important work of modern democratic literature, Democracy in America stands at right angles to the dull science of politics. Tocqueville’s account of the American democracy reveals the thinking of the nineteenth century. In the end, he contradicts himself. As a result, Tocqueville’s observations are crucial for understanding the development of American democracy and the possibilities it holds. But the underlying ideas of democracy remain the same, and the novel is worth reading today.
Despite this, Americans disagree on who belongs to the people. While there are a number of areas of agreement across partisan and ideological lines, they disagree on what constitutes a “true” American. In some countries, being born in the United States or believing in God is required to become “truly American.” These differences may prove harmful in today’s world, as more immigrants and religious pluralism become increasingly prominent. It’s necessary to discuss these differences and find a compromise.