The Us Woman and Society in Tocqueville’s Democracy in America

In his exploration of American society in the early 19th century, Alexis de Tocqueville devotes several chapters to the role and perception of women. His assertion that American women and men enjoy a form of equality raises eyebrows, especially when examined against the backdrop of societal norms and conditions of the time. While Tocqueville offers a perspective that hints at an egalitarian ethos, his lack of substantial evidence renders his claims unconvincing. A more intriguing aspect of his analysis lies in the parallels he draws between the “little society of husband and wife” and the “great political society” (574). This comparison invites a deeper examination of how the education of women relates to the functioning of democracy, as well as how the circumstances surrounding American women reflect the broader themes of majority tyranny and mild despotism that Tocqueville warns against.

Equality and Its Limitations

Tocqueville argues that women in America enjoy a degree of equality with men, albeit in distinct spheres, to facilitate societal functioning. He claims that while women are not overtly praised, they are “esteemed” (575) and possess the capacity to “show themselves to be men in mind and heart” (574). Furthermore, he suggests that Americans have elevated women in the intellectual and moral realms, positing that they are as capable as men (576). However, these assertions fail to disrupt the entrenched structures of “marital power.” Tocqueville acknowledges that “the natural head of the conjugal association is the man,” and thus, he argues, Americans do not deny men the authority to guide their wives (574). This raises critical questions about the authenticity of the supposed equality he describes.

One of Tocqueville’s strongest examples of women’s respect in America is the severe punishment for rape, which he claims is indicative of a higher regard for women compared to Europe, where rapists often escape harsh penalties. However, equating the punishment of rape with respect for women’s autonomy is problematic; it may reflect a societal view of women as property rather than as individuals with inherent rights. The notion that women are “virtuous and delicate” and that their honor must be protected serves to further entrap them. Tocqueville’s observation that “public opinion is inexorable toward her faults” (569) illustrates the societal pressures that women face, which can stifle their freedom.

The Necessity of Democratic Education

Examining the fate of the American woman within her “little society” reveals a significant parallel to Tocqueville’s understanding of “political society.” He emphasizes the necessity of democratic education for a thriving democracy, asserting that citizens must be educated to utilize their rights effectively. He states, “The states where citizens have enjoyed their rights longest are those where they know best how to make use of them” (229). In a similar vein, Tocqueville contends that women who have experienced a democratic upbringing will know how to exercise their free will in choosing a spouse.

To illustrate this, consider the following table that summarizes Tocqueville’s views on the relationship between education and freedom in both societal contexts:

This table underscores the critical role that education plays in both contexts. Tocqueville’s argument implies that without a solid foundation in democratic principles, both citizens and women may falter in their decision-making, leading to adverse outcomes.

Contradictions in Tocqueville’s Views

Despite Tocqueville’s fears regarding tyranny in political society, he appears to accept the despotism inherent in the marital relationship without criticism. He warns that in a democracy, despotism can emerge subtly, as those in power may not seem threatening due to their elected status (197). However, the constraints placed on women within marriage mirror this tyranny. Tocqueville notes that women must often sacrifice their pleasures for their husbands, a burden he observes is unique to American women compared to their European counterparts (565). Yet, he believes that because women have freely chosen their partners, they bear the responsibility for their circumstances. This perspective reinforces a troubling narrative that equates submission with virtue.

Furthermore, Tocqueville’s assertion that “the most virtuous women” derive glory from the voluntary abandonment of their wills (575) highlights a fundamental contradiction. Women are celebrated for their sacrifices, yet this very celebration undermines their autonomy. Their choices, whether in marriage or societal participation, are framed as expressions of free will while simultaneously being constrained by societal expectations.

Conclusion

In examining Tocqueville’s depiction of American women alongside his analysis of American democracy, we uncover profound insights into the nature of equality and despotism. The parallels drawn between the “little society” of marriage and the “great political society” of democracy illustrate the complexities of power dynamics in both contexts. Tocqueville’s views reveal a troubling acceptance of despotism in familial relationships, contrasting sharply with his fears of political tyranny. Ultimately, the necessity of democratic education emerges as a critical theme, raising questions about the potential for true freedom and equality for women in societies steeped in tradition and historical constraints.

References:

De Tocqueville, Alexis. Mansfield, Harvey, and Delba Winthrop (trans). Democracy in America. University of Chicago Press: Chicago, 2002.