No protracted war can fail to endanger the freedom of a democratic country. - Alexis de Tocqueville

everybody feels the evil, but no one has courage or energy enough to seek the cure

In democratic ages men rarely sacrifice themselves for another, but they show a general compassion for all the human race. One never sees them inflict pointless suffering, and they are glad to relieve the sorrows of others when they can do so without much trouble to themselves. They are not disinterested, but they are gentle.

In countries where associations are free, secret societies are unknown. In America there are factions, but no conspiracies.