Dangers of Democracy
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Alexis de Tocqueville wrote an insightful body of work, entitled "Democracy in America," involving the democratic theories and practices of the American nation. His work was widely popular throughout the European nations, due to their lack of truly democratic ways. The author stressed a sincere opinion that the utter theory of the sovereignty of the people underlies even the most basic of institutions. Though, it may not be recognized, it is still an integral component of the institutions throughout Europe. This is in stark contrast to the United States, however; where the principle of the sovereignty of the people is quite evident and in some cases proudly displayed. Alexis de Tocqueville stated, "If there is a country in the world where the doctrine of the sovereignty of the people can be fairly appreciated, where it can be studied in its application to the affairs of society, and where its dangers and its advantages may be judged, that country is assuredly America."
He was so openly intrigued by the presence of true democracy in the American nation, because the citizens were given a hands-on opportunity to take part in the ultimate operation of the country. Alexis de Tocqueville was, however, convinced that a democratic style of government had a number of loopholes in it that could lead to ultimate ruin. The first of these he considered to be a tyranny of the majority. The second danger he sensed could arise was individualism...