French Political Thought from Montesquieu to Tocqueville

This insightful exploration reveals how Montesquieu's ideas influenced Tocqueville and shaped the course of modern French political thought.

In French Political Thought from Montesquieu to Tocqueville, Dr. Annelien de Dijn offers a profound exploration of the political ideas that shaped modern France. She presents Montesquieu's aristocratic liberalism as a critical influence on post-revolutionary thought, challenging the prevailing narrative that emphasizes the dominance of revolutionary republicanism. By examining the interplay between aristocracy and democracy, Dr. de Dijn uncovers the complexities of political thought during a transformative period in French history.

The author argues that Montesquieu's belief in the necessity of an aristocratic 'corps intermédiaire' for preserving freedom in a monarchy continued to resonate in the political landscape following the revolution. This perspective stands in contrast to the views of revisionist historians who have largely focused on the impact of popular sovereignty and monist politics. Instead, French Political Thought from Montesquieu to Tocqueville highlights the enduring relevance of pluralist liberalism, which viewed democracy and equality as potential threats to individual liberties.

By recontextualizing the works of Alexis de Tocqueville, Dr. de Dijn positions him as an intellectual heir not only to the Restoration liberals but also to the Royalists and Montesquieu himself. This insightful study enriches our understanding of the nuances of modern political thought, illustrating how historical influences continue to shape contemporary discussions about liberty and governance.