Contempt Quote by Alexis de Tocqueville
“We can state with conviction, therefore, that a man's support for absolute government is in direct proportion to the contempt he feels for his country.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Democracy in America, Alexis de Tocqueville, 1835
People who despise their nation tend to favor strong, authoritarian rule as a way to express that contempt.
In simple terms: Disdain for country leads to support for absolute power.
Key Takeaway
Beware how contempt fuels authoritarianism.
Themes
politics
nationalism
authoritarianism
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
analytical
political
When to use this quote
- elections
- public policy debates
- citizen activism
- media commentary
Key Concepts
social contract
civic duty
political psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What does contempt for one's country look like today?
- How can civic education reduce authoritarian appeal?
A Different Perspective
If love for country is low, other motivations may drive political choices.
![“Every person of any rank in the left, from voter on up to cabinet member to elected official in the Democrat Party, has contempt. We [Republicans] are the number one enemy. And they will put aside whatever differences they have.” quote by Rush Limbaugh](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/08a/rush-limbaugh-28_cabinets_every-person-of-any-rank-in-the-left-fro_29974.jpg){kind=icon}