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Single Idea 22671

[filed under theme 25. Social Practice / B. Equalities / 2. Political equality ]

Full Idea

I know of only two methods of establishing equality in the political world; rights must be given to every citizen, or none at all to anyone.

Gist of Idea

Equality can only be established by equal rights for all (or no rights for anyone)

Source

Alexis de Tocqueville (Democracy in America (abr Renshaw) [1840], 1.02)

Book Ref

Tocqueville,Alexis de: 'Democracy in America (abridged)', ed/tr. Renshaw,Patrick [Wordsworth 1998], p.28

A Reaction

We may have a vague concept of 'natural' rights, but primarily they are a tool of social engineering. You could grant equal rights on inheritance, for example, which turn out in practice to hugely favour the rich.

The 15 ideas from Alexis de Tocqueville

22669 Aristocracy is constituted by inherited landed property [Tocqueville]
22670 Slavery undermines the morals and energy of a society [Tocqueville]
22672 It is admirable to elevate the humble to the level of the great, but the opposite is depraved [Tocqueville]
22671 Equality can only be established by equal rights for all (or no rights for anyone) [Tocqueville]
22674 In Europe it is thought that local government is best handled centrally [Tocqueville]
22673 Wherever there is a small community, the association of the people is natural [Tocqueville]
22675 In American judges rule according to the Constitution, not the law [Tocqueville]
22677 A monarchical family is always deeply concerned with the interests of the state [Tocqueville]
22678 An election, and its lead up time, are always a national crisis [Tocqueville]
22679 Vast empires are bad for well-being and freedom, though they may promote glory [Tocqueville]
22680 People would be much happier and freer in small nations [Tocqueville]
22676 The people are just individuals, and only present themselves as united to foreigners [Tocqueville]
22681 The liberty of the press is more valuable for what it prevents than what it promotes [Tocqueville]
22682 Universal suffrage is no guarantee of wise choices [Tocqueville]
22683 Despots like to see their own regulations ignored, by themselves and their agents [Tocqueville]