Friday, June 14, 2013

Halfway there...

In January, I started reading Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville.  I figured if I read just two pages a day I'd be able to finish the book by the end of the year.  This week I reached the halfway point!  I've been amazed by de Tocqueville's articulateness and intelligence, and also by how relevant this book still remains today.  Here are two of my favorite quotes:
"...the democratic government of the Americans is not a cheap government .. they must often spend the money of the people to no purpose, or consume more of it than is really necessary for their enterprises." (p.184)
"Unlimited power is in itself a bad and dangerous thing.  Human beings are not competent to exercise it with discretion.  God alone can be omnipotent, because his wisdom and his justice are always equal to his power." (p.216) 
Democracy in America:  352 pages down; 352 pages to go.
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4 comments:

  1. Monika @ Lovely BookshelfJune 14, 2013 at 10:26 AM

    What a great idea, to read this through so slowly. Almost ends up being a study on the work. Congrats on reaching the halfway mark!

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    1. Lark June 14, 2013 at 11:52 AM

      Thanks! This book has been on my list of "Books I really need to read before I die" forever; it'll be good to finally get it finished.

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  2. Trish @ Between My LinesJune 14, 2013 at 12:06 PM

    I admire your dedication. A few pages a day is a great way to get through a 'heavy' book.

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    Replies
    1. Lark June 14, 2013 at 5:01 PM

      Two pages at a time is the only way I'd get through a book like this...it's not really a book you can sit down and read all weekend long, you know?

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