The Americans, on the contrary, are fond of explaining almost all the actions of their lives by the principle of interest rightly understood; they show with complacency how an enlightened regard for themselves constantly prompts them to assist each other, and inclines them willingly to sacrifice a portion of their time and property to the welfare of the state.


Democracy in America: Part the Second: The Social Influence of Democracy (ed. 1840)

Alexis de Tocqueville Quotes

The Americans, on the contrary, are fond of explaining almost all the actions of their lives by the principle of interest rightly understood; they...

The Americans, on the contrary, are fond of explaining almost all the actions of their lives by the principle of interest rightly understood; they...

The Americans, on the contrary, are fond of explaining almost all the actions of their lives by the principle of interest rightly understood; they...

The Americans, on the contrary, are fond of explaining almost all the actions of their lives by the principle of interest rightly understood; they...