POLI 474 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Alexis De Tocqueville, Social Forces, Upper Class
15 Apr 2018
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Main argument: the british society has been characterized by the individual advancement through the acquisition of wealth (by the upper class). Inequality can be characterized as a religion in britain. The inequality that has deplored the british society is not inequality of personal gifts, but of the social and economic environment. The working-class movement should advance themselves on the basis of greater equality. The equality that is desirable is one of circumstances, institutions and manner of life. The important factor is whether the working class and the poor have greater opportunities to advance their interests. Equality should not be completely attained, but it should be sincerely sought. This common culture is attained through cooperation, mutual confidence and tolerance. A common culture can only be attained if there are practical foundations of social organization. Common culture is incompatible with the existence of sharp contrasts between the economic standards and educational opportunities of different classes.
