Alexis de Tocqueville Books
Alexis de Tocqueville was a French political thinker and historian whose work explored the effects of rising social equality on individuals and the state in Western societies. Through his seminal analyses, he examined the dynamics of democracy and the impact of societal shifts on political structures. His detailed observations and astute insights, particularly from his travels in the United States, remain foundational to sociology and political science. Tocqueville's writings grapple with enduring questions of liberty, equality, and the nature of democratic governance.







This reprint preserves the original text from 1845, offering readers a glimpse into the historical context and literary style of the time. The book captures the essence of its era, showcasing themes and narratives that reflect the societal norms and cultural influences of the mid-19th century. Readers can expect an authentic experience that highlights the author's voice and perspective, making it a valuable addition to any collection of classic literature.
Memoirs on Pauperism and Other Writings
- 104 pages
- 4 hours of reading
Democracy in America
- 778 pages
- 28 hours of reading
The classic commentary on the influence of democracy on the intellect, feelings, and actions of Americans
De Tocqueville's great meditation on the origins and meanings of the French revolution remains one of the most profound and influential studies of this pivotal period.
Presents Tocqueville's study of the French Revolution in the context of the country's history, critiquing the call to liberty by the French people in 1789 and raising concerns that, while the revolutionary spirit had prevailed, the post-Revolutionary state had retained the tyranny it tried to overthrow
In 1831, Alexis de Tocqueville, a young French aristocrat and civil servant, embarked on a 9-month journey across America, covering 7,000 miles. His observations culminated in a profound analysis of 19th-century American life and institutions. Tocqueville viewed the flourishing democratic system in America as a potential model for post-revolutionary France, believing its egalitarian ideals embodied the spirit of the age and even divine will. His exploration of the strengths and weaknesses of this evolving democracy has been referenced by every American president since Eisenhower, making it essential for discussions about the American nation and its democratic framework. This new edition includes all of Tocqueville's writings on America, featuring the rarely-translated Two Weeks in the Wilderness, which recounts his travels in Michigan among the Iroquois, and Excursion to Lake Oneida. For over seventy years, Penguin has been a leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world, offering more than 1,700 titles that represent a global bookshelf of significant works across genres and disciplines. Readers rely on the series for authoritative texts, enhanced by introductions and notes from distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as modern translations by award-winning translators.
From America's call for a free press to its embrace of the capitalist system, Democracy in America--first published in 1835--enlightens, entertains, and endures as a brilliant study of our national government and character. Philosopher John Stuart Mill called it "among the most remarkable productions of our time." Woodrow Wilson wrote that de Tocqueville's ability to illuminate the actual workings of American democracy was "possibly without rival." For today's readers, de Tocqueville's concern about the effect of majority rule on the rights of individuals remains deeply meaningful. His shrewd observations about the "almost royal prerogatives" of the president and the need for virtue in elected officials are particularly prophetic. His profound insights into the great rewards and responsibilities of democratic government are words every American needs to read, contemplate, and remember. From America's call for a free press to its embrace of the capitalist system Democracy in America enlightens, entertains, and endures as a brilliant study of our national government and character. De Toqueville's concern about the effect of majority rule on the rights of individuals remains deeply meaningful. His insights into the great rewards and responsibilities of democratic government are words every American needs to read, contemplate, and remember.
Democracy in America; Volume II
- 422 pages
- 15 hours of reading
Memoirs, Letters, and Remains of Alexis De Tocqueville; Volume 2
- 338 pages
- 12 hours of reading