Tocqueville's Algeria [Ressource électronique]

This article features sociologist Alexis de Tocqueville and his Algerian writings. Readers of his Algerian writings have been struck by the apparent contradiction between his defense of colonialism and his otherwise liberal pedigree. Yet this vexing consequence of his political sociology is already implicit in his book, "Democracy in America." The fact that the fortuitous traditions, mores and political institutions of the Anglo-Americans have delivered them political liberty suggests an obvious logical corollary: namely, that other peoples who are not so favored might justifiably be denied them.