89 pages • 2 hours read
Alexis de TocquevilleDemocracy in America
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1835A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read 
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Summary
Volume 1, Part 1, Introduction
Volume 1, Part 1, Chapters 1-2
Volume 1, Part 1, Chapters 3-4
Volume 1, Part 1, Chapter 5
Volume 1, Part 1, Chapters 6-7
Volume 1, Part 1, Chapter 8
Volume 1, Part 2, Chapters 1-2
Volume 1, Part 2, Chapters 3-4
Volume 1, Part 2, Chapter 5
Volume 1, Part 2, Chapter 6
Volume 1, Part 2, Chapter 7
Volume 1, Part 2, Chapter 8
Volume 1, Part 2, Chapters 9-10
Volume 2, Notice
Volume 2, Part 1, Chapters 1-2
Volume 2, Part 1, Chapters 3-5
Volume 2, Part 1, Chapters 6-8
Volume 2, Part 1, Chapters 9-10
Volume 2, Part 1, Chapters 11-12
Volume 2, Part 1, Chapters 13-15
Volume 2, Part 1, Chapters 16-19
Volume 2, Part 1, Chapters 20-21
Volume 2, Part 2, Chapters 1-3
Volume 2, Part 2, Chapters 4-7
Volume 2, Part 2, Chapters 8-12
Volume 2, Part 2, Chapters 13-17
Volume 2, Part 2, Chapters 18-20
Volume 2, Part 3, Chapters 1-4
Volume 2, Part 3, Chapters 5-7
Volume 2, Part 3, Chapters 8-12
Volume 2, Part 3, Chapters 13-16
Volume 2, Part 3, Chapters 17-20
Volume 2, Part 3, Chapters 21-26
Volume 2, Part 4, Chapters 1-3
Volume 2, Part 4, Chapters 4-6
Volume 2, Part 4, Chapters 7-8
Key Figures
Themes
Index of Terms
Important Quotes
Essay Topics
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Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville is a multifaceted exploration of American society and government, emphasizing the merits and dangers of a democratic system. Based on Tocqueville's observations during his travels in the U.S., the work examines local and federal governance, the influence of Puritan heritage, and the implications of popular sovereignty. It addresses regional differences, the threat of tyranny by majority, and the sociocultural impacts of democracy, such as materialism and the potential stifling of individual initiative. Tocqueville concludes that associations safeguard freedoms within a democratic framework, urging his contemporaries to embrace their era's unique potential for greatness and happiness. Topics include slavery, racism, and the struggle for freedom among enslaved people.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
In Democracy in America, Alexis de Tocqueville offers insightful analysis of American society and its democratic institutions. Praised for its depth and foresight, the work highlights both strengths and potential flaws of American democracy. Some critics find it dense and occasionally outdated. Overall, it remains a seminal and influential text in political theory.
Who Should Read Democracy in America?
A reader who appreciates Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville likely enjoys insightful political analysis, historical contexts, and reflections on democratic systems. They'll find parallels in relevance and depth with Montesquieu’s The Spirit of the Laws or Madison’s contributions to The Federalist Papers.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
1310LBook Details
History: U.S.
Politics / Government
Sociology
French Literature
American Literature
Philosophy