Explain one of the major dangers to American democracy that Tocqueville discusses (e.g. tyranny of the majority, individualism, excessive love of material well-being) and why this is a danger particular to democratic societies, as opposed to aristocracies. What is one aspect of American institutions that he sees as helping to mitigate the danger you discuss (e.g. religion, associations, newspapers). Conclude by briefly reflecting upon whether you think that this feature of American democracy helping to mitigate a danger to democracy still plays the role in America society that Tocqueville observed in 1831. Draw on Putnam’s analysis of family, schooling, or community in answering this last question. The two books that are used are Putnam’s Our Kids and Alexis Tocqueville Democracy in America. This is for an English class however.