Online event with Villa Albertine: Tocqueville, the man who understood democracy

The Federation of Alliances Françaises USA invites you to attend the online event "French-American Histories, one story, two narratives: Tocqueville, the man who understood democracy (in English)" 

“French-American Histories, one story, two narratives” is a program of curatorial talks launched by the Villa Albertine in collaboration with the Federation of Alliances Françaises USA. Each episode reveals a different facet of the vibrant French-American tapestry, through interviews with leading scholars, experts, and practitioners conducted by Dr. Iris de Rode, an expert in the history of French-American relations. The interviews will be broadcasted live and recorded monthly at the French Embassy or other locations in the United States. For October, we are thrilled to host Prof. Olivier Zunz for an episode focusing on Alexis de Tocqueville.

“Tocqueville, the man who understood democracy”

An Interview with Prof. Olivier Zunz: Professor University of Virginia, author of: The Man who Understood Democracy: The life of Alexis de Tocqueville. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2022)

Alexis de Tocqueville, the famous French political thinker and historian, is widely regarded as a profound and insightful observer of democracy. Through his seminal work, “Democracy in America,” Tocqueville delved into the intricacies of American society, analyzing its strengths, challenges, and potential pitfalls. He recognized the delicate balance between individual liberty and the need for social cohesion, and he foresaw the potential dangers of majority tyranny and the erosion of democratic institutions. Tocqueville’s keen observations on the virtues and vulnerabilities of democracy, his emphasis on the importance of civil society, and his nuanced understanding of the complexities of human nature continue to resonate today. His work serves as a timeless guide, offering invaluable insights into the nature of democracy and providing a foundation for the ongoing exploration and improvement of democratic systems around the world.

Olivier Zunz is James Madison Professor of History at the University of Virginia and an internationally recognized expert on the life and work of Alexis de Tocqueville.

This event will be in English on Zoom 

Members : Free

Non members can purchase tickets ($10)

You'll get the link to register in the confirmation email.