Tocqueville Gone Quote by Os Guinness
““One overall conclusion is plain: under the weight of the combined impact of exploding pluralism, the expansion of the state, and emerging separationism, the early American settlement, so brilliantly described by Tocqueville, is gone, and gone for good.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Democracy in America, Alexis de Tocqueville, 1835
The early American settlement described by Tocqueville has disappeared due to rising pluralism, state expansion, and separationist forces.
In simple terms: America’s original community is lost because of growing diversity and government reach.
Recognize how societal changes reshape communities.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- policy making
- community building
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do modern societies preserve communal values amid diversity?
- What role should government play in balancing unity and pluralism?
The analysis may overlook positive aspects of pluralism and new forms of community.