The challenge of an asymmetrical world

Article Abstract:

Asymmetry is a key element of Alexis de Tocqueville's thought. The basic principles of democracy are the same in every country, but there are variations between the historical processes through which democracy emerges. Asymmetry still exists, and represents the most significant challenge to understanding human societies and the ways in which they evolve. There are some clear differences between what Tocqueville described and the current situation. These include unequal prospects for economic progress between the West and the South. Many people are now striving towards democracy, but many negative factors are hampering democracy's further progression.

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Race and ethnicity in America

Article Abstract:

Alexis de Tocqueville's 'Democracy in America' mainly ignores the great failure of US democracy to embrace Indians and blacks. However, Tocqueville was fully aware of the significant drawback in the US experiment that threatened to bring it to a close. One reason why he did not discuss this issue in 'Democracy in America' was that he knew Gustave de Beaumont was going to address it in 'Marie, or Slavery in the United States.' The diversity that most struck both Tocqueville and Beaumont was the presence of the Indians and the slaves. Tocqueville was concerned about the situation of the Indians, but could not identify a way of helping them. He also saw no solution to the problems created for the US by the presence of slaves.

History, Race relations

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The cultural challenge to individualism

Article Abstract:

Alexis de Tocqueville was very concerned about the individualistic implications of US democracy. He was aware that, with the emergence of more equal social conditions and the linked strengthening of the desire for equality, people would not tolerate aristocracy. He forecast the waning of the aristocratic virtues, but clearly preferred them to individualism. He was particularly concerned about the dangers of individualism for traditional family links and for civil society. The debate about individualism and democracy will become fiercer as democracy spreads to more countries.

Individualism

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