Tocqueville reflects on the challenges of balancing liberty and equality from "summary" of Democracy In America: Volume I & II by Alexis de Tocqueville
In a democratic society, where the people hold the power, there exists a tension between the desire for individual liberty and the drive for equality among citizens. Tocqueville astutely observes this delicate balance, recognizing the inherent challenges that arise in reconciling these two fundamental principles. On one hand, liberty is cherished as a cornerstone of democracy, allowing individuals to pursue their own interests and exercise their freedoms without undue interference from the government or societal constraints. However, unchecked liberty may lead to inequality, as some individuals inevitably excel while others struggle to keep pace. This disparity threatens the very foundation of equality that democracy seeks to uphold. Conversely, the pursuit of equality aims to level the playing ...
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