22. Democratic Statecraft: Tocqueville's Democracy in America

Introduction to Political Philosophy (PLSC 114)
Three main features that Tocqueville regarded as central to American democracy are discussed: the importance of local government, the concept of "civil association," and "the spirit of religion." The book is not simply a celebration of the democratic experience in America; Tocqueville is deeply worried about the potential of a democratic tyranny.
00:00 - Chapter 1. The Characteristics of American Democracy: Civil Association
10:50 - Chapter 2. The Characteristics of American Democracy: Spirit of Religion
25:47 - Chapter 3. Tyranny of the Majority
Complete course materials are available at the Open Yale Courses website: open.yale.edu/courses
This course was recorded in Fall 2006.