Thursday, November 3, 2011

Toqueville's words on democracy and socialism

Toqueville wrote:

"Democracy extends the sphere of individual freedom; socialism restricts it.  Democracy attaches all possible value to each man; socialism makes each man a mere agent, a mere number. Democracy and socialism have nothing in common but one word: equality.  But notice the difference: while democracy seeks equality in liberty, socialism seeks equality in restraint and servitude."

I had a political science professor in college who referenced Toqueville a lot and I did not appreciate it at the time, being a dumb college kid, indoctrinated by the liberal media and schools.   Now, since I have grown up and learned to think, I am grateful that this professor introduced us to these writings.  All students should read Toqueville.

Truer words were never spoken.   I am going to be reading through Hayek's "The Road to Serfdom" and I think I'll be posting things that strike me as I go through.

No comments:

Post a Comment