HIST 510 3A / POLSC 510 3A: Great American Texts – Democracy in America
Alexis de Tocqueville’s Democracy in America is the best book on democracy and the best book on America. He recognized the justice of democratic equality but also was concerned how the passion for equality could degrade human dignity, undermine liberty, and sap public spiritedness. As a friendly critic of democracy, Tocqueville looked for principles, practices, and institutions that are both compatible with democracy but also support excellence, freedom, and the civic virtues. This course will examine as much of the book as we can and will focus on Tocqueville’s reflections on the Puritans, political institutions, civil associations, slavery, Native Americans, women and the family, public opinion, happiness, and religion.

Materials: Syllabus Course Pack