In democratic ages men rarely sacrifice themselves for another, but they show a general compassion for all the human race. One never sees them inflict pointless suffering, and they are glad to relieve the sorrows of others when they can do so without much trouble to themselves. They are not disinterested, but they are gentle.


Book Three, Chapter I. - Democracy in America, Volume II (1840)

Alexis de Tocqueville Quotes

In democratic ages men rarely sacrifice themselves for another, but they show a general compassion for all the human race. One never sees them...

In democratic ages men rarely sacrifice themselves for another, but they show a general compassion for all the human race. One never sees them...

In democratic ages men rarely sacrifice themselves for another, but they show a general compassion for all the human race. One never sees them...

In democratic ages men rarely sacrifice themselves for another, but they show a general compassion for all the human race. One never sees them...