Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville
This influential book offers an in-depth analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of 19th century American democracy. The author, a French political thinker, provides a detailed examination of the democratic process and its impact on society, politics, and the economy. The work highlights the importance of civil society, local institutions, and the spirit of equality in ensuring the stability of democracy. It also delves into the dangers of majority tyranny, the potential for democratic despotism, and the critical role of religion and morality in sustaining a democratic nation.
The 233rd greatest book of all time
Ranking Details:
Our ranking system awards points to books based on their appearance and position on curated lists. Here's how it works:
Unranked Lists: For lists without specific rankings, each book receives points equivalent to the list's weight. This approach recognizes the book's inclusion on prestigious lists.
Ranked Lists: Books on ranked lists receive points in two ways:
- Base Points: Initially, every book is awarded points equal to the list's weight, acknowledging its significance.
- Bonus Points: Additionally, books earn bonus points based on their ranking. The total bonus pool, equal to 100% of the list's weight, is distributed among the books, with higher-ranked books receiving more points.
Exponential Distribution: The distribution of bonus points follows an exponential model. This means the top-ranked book (#1) receives significantly more bonus points than those further down the list (e.g., #100). Our algorithm ensures that higher placements are rewarded more generously, reflecting the achievement of a top rank on any given list.
This scoring system ensures that each book's ranking reflects both its presence on multiple lists and its positions within those lists, providing a comprehensive measure of its acclaim and popularity.
Total Points: 1272
Since this book was first published in 1835, there is a penalty of 0%. The age adjusted score is 1272.0.
This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.
- score: 120 -- The Guardian's Essential Library (Weight: 120)
- score: 108 -- The Great Books Reader (Weight: 108)
- score: 102 -- 48 Good Books (Weight: 102)
- score: 102 -- The Bigger Read List (Weight: 102)
- score: 99 -- The New Lifetime Reading Plan (Weight: 99)
- score: 96 -- Six Professors from "Esteemed" Universities Favorite Books (Weight: 96)
- score: 96 -- Best Books Listed for High School Students (Weight: 96)
- score: 90 -- Our Users' Favorite Books of All Time (Weight: 90)
- score: 75 -- Masterpieces of World Literature (Weight: 75)
- score: 72 -- The Best Travel Books of All Time, According to Authors (Weight: 72)
- score: 69 -- The 50 Most Influential Books of All Time (Weight: 69)
- score: 63 -- 110 Best Books: The Perfect Library (Weight: 63)
- score: 51 -- The College Board: 101 Great Books Recommended for College-Bound Readers (Weight: 51)
- score: 45 -- Great Books of the Western World (Weight: 45)
- score: 45 -- The Well-Educated Mind (Weight: 45)
- score: 39 -- 1,000 Books to Read Before You Die: A Life-Changing List (Weight: 39)