This article reflects on the 1992 publication of the first Czech translation of Alexis de Tocqueville's seminal work, Democracy in America. It highlights the enduring relevance of Tocqueville's insights, which transcend historical context. The author presents Tocqueville as a conservative liberal who critically identifies the pitfalls of democratic systems, particularly the danger of the 'tyranny of the majority.' Drawing parallels with Czech thinkers T. G. Masaryk and Emanuel Rádl, the text explores the tension between majority power and the pursuit of objective truth and justice. It emphasizes the necessity of protecting minorities and individuals through fundamental human rights. Furthermore, the document addresses the tendency of democratic majorities toward self-adoration and a lack of self-criticism or humor. Ultimately, the author questions whether contemporary Czech society can navigate these democratic challenges as successfully as the American model, asserting that democracy requires competent elites and open argumentation rather than a mere reliance on majority rule.
Demokracie v Americe [ad: Alexis de Tocqueville: Demokracie v Americe, 1992]
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◆ review, Czech, origin: 16. 4. 1992
- in: Křesťanská revue, 59, 1992, n. 6, p. 143
- in: Ladislav Hejdánek, Setkání a odstup, Praha: OIKOYMENH, 2010, p. 291–292