Question

"Hence arises the maxim that everyone is the best and the sole judge of his own private interest, and that society has no right to control a man's actions, unless they are prejudicial to the common weal [good] or unless the common weal [good] demands his co-operation. This doctrine is universally admitted in the United States."


— Alexis de Tocqueville, Democracy in America


Which U.S. government action is MOST CLOSELY based on this idea?

Answer 1

The idea expressed by Alexis de Tocqueville emphasizes individualism and the belief that people are the best judges of their own interests, with society having limited authority to intervene in personal actions unless they harm the common good or require cooperation for the common good. A U.S. government action that is most closely based on this idea is the protection of individual liberties and rights under the First Amendment of the Constitution, which guarantees freedoms such as speech, religion, and assembly. This amendment illustrates the principle that individuals should have the freedom to express themselves and act according to their own interests, provided that their actions do not infringe upon the rights and safety of others.