Capitalist Quote by Alexis de Tocqueville
“Can it be believed that the democracy which overthrew the feudal system and vanquished kings will retreat before tradesmen and capitalists?”
About This Quote
Source Book: Democracy in America, 1835
He questions whether democracy, having toppled feudal hierarchies, will retreat when faced with the rise of merchants and capitalists.
In simple terms: Democracy may be challenged by emerging economic powers.
Key Takeaway
Watch for new power dynamics in democratic societies.
Themes
democracy
economics
class
power
history
Mood
critical
historical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- economic reforms
- labor movements
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Political theory
social change
economic sociology
Questions to Reflect On
- Will capitalism reshape democratic institutions?
- How can societies balance economic growth with democratic values?
A Different Perspective
Economic elites can undermine democratic ideals.
![“I am a democrat [proponent of democracy] because I believe in the Fall of Man. I think most people are democrats for the opposite reason. A great deal of democratic enthusiasm descends from the ideas of people like Rousseau, who believed in democracy because they thought mankind so wise and good…” quote by C.S. Lewis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/655/c-s-lewis-121_cs-lewis_i-am-a-democrat-proponent-of-democracy-b_140004.jpg)
