Alexis de Tocqueville, full name Alexis Charles Henri Clérel de Tocqueville, was a French political thinker, historian, and writer born on July 29, 1805, in Paris, France. He is best known for his influential work “Democracy in America,” which offers insightful observations on democracy and its impact on society.

Tocqueville came from an aristocratic family and pursued a career in law. In 1831, he embarked on a nine-month journey to the United States with his colleague Gustave de Beaumont, during which he extensively studied American society and politics. The observations and reflections from this journey became the foundation for his seminal work, “Democracy in America,” published in two volumes in 1835 and 1840.

Here are a few quotes from Alexis de Tocqueville:

1. “The health of a democratic society may be measured by the quality of functions performed by private citizens.”
2. “America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.”
3. “In democracy, the majority of citizens is capable of exercising the most cruel oppressions upon the minority.”
4. “The American Republic will endure until the day Congress discovers that it can bribe the public with the public’s money.”
5. “The best laws cannot make a constitution work in spite of morals; morals can turn the worst laws to advantage.”

As for his best five books, Tocqueville’s notable works include:

1. “Democracy in America” (1835, 1840) – Tocqueville’s most renowned work, it explores the strengths and challenges of democracy, its impact on individual liberty, the role of civil society, and the potential dangers of tyranny of the majority.
2. “The Old Regime and the Revolution” (1856) – This book examines the social, political, and economic factors that led to the French Revolution, offering insights into the downfall of the French monarchy.
3. “The Recollections” (1893) – Tocqueville’s memoir, published posthumously, provides a personal account of his experiences, thoughts, and encounters throughout his life, shedding light on his intellectual development and political views.
4. “Journey to America” (1839) – Based on his travel notes, this book describes Tocqueville’s impressions of American society, politics, and culture during his journey to the United States.
5. “L’Ancien Régime et la Révolution” (1856) – This work delves into the causes and consequences of the French Revolution, analyzing the social and political factors that contributed to the collapse of the monarchy and the rise of revolutionary movements.

These books showcase Tocqueville’s astute observations, political analysis, and insights into the workings of democracy and society. His writings continue to be studied and appreciated as valuable contributions to political science and social theory.