Lanahan

“Democracy in America”, page 85

Alexis De Tocqueville
Chapter 2

1. According to De Tocqueville, what are the dangers of a nation ruled by democracy?

Use quotes from the text to support your answer.

2. What possible solution does De Tocqueville offer?

3. Why, according the De Tocqueville, is there so “little true independence of mind

and freedom of discussion as in America.”? Use quotes from the text to support
your answer.

4. Explain what De Tocqueville meant by “Tyranny of the majority.” In your opinion,

supported with facts and examples, does that exist today, or have we perfected a
system to guard against it?