Tocqueville and the Contemporary Critique of Liberalism

• In Event: Thinking with Tocqueville, Rousseau, and Hegel

Abstract

In recent years some conservative commentators have enlisted the aid of Alexis de Tocqueville as an intellectual ally in their critique of the liberal tradition, particularly as liberalism bears on the principles, culture, and institutions of the American regime. Some, such as political theorist Patrick Deneen, even appeal to Tocqueville’s thought in heralding the end of liberalism as a viable guide for political life. This paper will explain and critically assess the appeal to Tocqueville in such arguments. The paper will consider the strengths and potential limitations of invoking Tocqueville as a critic of contemporary liberalism.

Author

• Jason Jividen, Saint Vincent College