I know of no country in which there is so little independence of mind and real freedom of discussion as in America.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- It suggests that despite political freedom, American society discourages independent thought and open debate.
- In plain terms
- America has laws for freedom but people often think and say the same things.
- What can you take from it?
- Conformity can exist even in free societies.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is true freedom of mind possible in a mass society?
- How do you encourage independent thinking?
Another view
This view may ignore the vibrant debates occurring in American public life.
More from Alexis de Tocqueville
I have no hesitation in saying that although the American woman never leaves her domestic sphere and is in some respects very dependent within it, nowhere does…
Permalink to quote #46 I should have loved freedom, I believe, at all times, but in the time in which we live I am ready to worship it.
Permalink to quote #48 I have come across men of letters who have written history without taking part in public affairs, and politicians who have concerned themselves with producing …
Permalink to quote #45
Related quotes
America is a country where they have freedom of speech but everyone says the same thing.
Alexis de TocquevilleAlexis de Tocqueville quote #25 The struggle is always between the individual and his sacred right to express himself and the power structure that seeks conformity, suppression, and obedience.
William O. DouglasWilliam O. Douglas quote #22 It is our attitude toward free thought and free expression that will determine our fate. There must be no limit on the range of temperate discussion, no limits…
William O. DouglasWilliam O. Douglas quote #31