The aspect of American society is animated, because men and things are always changing; but it is monotonous, because all the changes are alike.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
He [Napoleon] was as great as a man can be without morality.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that greatness is possible even without a moral foundation.
Alexis De Tocqueville reflects on Napoleon's remarkable achievements and influence, asserting that he reached a peak of human greatness despite lacking a moral compass. This prompts a discussion about the nature of greatness, questioning whether accomplishments can truly be celebrated when they are not anchored in ethical considerations.
Themes
GreatnessMoralityPowerNapoleonPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about leadership qualities, this quote could illustrate the tension between ethical behavior and successful outcomes.
More from Alexis De Tocqueville
All quotes βDemocratic communities have a natural taste for freedom: left to themselves they will seek it, cherish it, and view any deprivation of it with regret. But for equality their passion is ardent, insatiable, incessant, invincible: they call for equality in freedom; and if they cannot obtain that, they still call for equality in slavery.
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Religion, which never intervenes directly in the government of American society, should therefore be considered as the first of their political institutions
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The surface of American society is covered with a layer of democratic paint, but from time to time one can see the old aristocratic colours breaking through.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
The Indian knew how to live without wants, to suffer without complaint, and to die singing.
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Grant me thirty years of equal division of inheritances and a free press, and I will provide you with a republic.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
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