Read the complete article by ordering our print issue. The base of Tocqueville's own philosophical views is the exact opposite of the views he has attributed to the Americans. At root, Tocqueville is a Platonist who believes that everything high and good rests ultimately in another, non-material, dimension. His description of Sunday church services in America, for example, is a paean to the glories of other-worldliness. In the United States, when the seventh day comes, trade and industry seem suspended throughout the nation.
All noise stops.
A deep repose, or rather solemn contemplation, takes its place. At last the soul comes into its own and meditates upon itself. He is told of the countless evils brought on by pride and covetousness. He is reminded of the need to check his desires and told of the finer delights which go with virtue alone, and the true happiness they bring. When he gets home he does not hurry to his business ledgers.