Association Quote by Alexis de Tocqueville
“At the head of any new undertaking where in France you would find the government, or in England some great lord, in the United States you are sure to find an association.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Democracy in America, Volume I, 1835
In each society, a dominant institution fills the leadership gap of new projects, reflecting local power structures.
In simple terms: Institutions fill leadership gaps.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and engage the prevailing institution.
Themes
politics
institutionalism
leadership
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
historical
observational
When to use this quote
- starting a business
- community organizing
- policy advocacy
- nonprofit formation
Key Concepts
civil society
government
social organization
Questions to Reflect On
- How does the prevailing institution shape outcomes?
- What strategies can you use to work with or around it?
A Different Perspective
The dominant institution may resist change or innovation.
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