The great nineteenth century observer of American life, Alexis de Tocqueville, noted that Americans associated for purposes large and small, grand and banal. These associations made American democracy work because they are not only essential to self-government–they are self-government. What did Tocqueville and his greatest American student Robert Nisbet have to say about associations and the conception of political power that makes them work?
Current undergraduate students in the Pittsburgh area are invited to attend this intimate seminar led by Dr. Luke Sheahan.
Students will read and discuss:
- The Social Philosophers: Community and Conflict in Western Thought, Robert Nisbet (selections)
- Democracy in America, Alexis de Tocqueville (selections)
Interested in hosting events like this? Learn more about ISI Societies.
