Tocqueville introduces the second volume of his work with a reminder that while other social trends are evident in both America and Europe, his primary interest is equality and its results. He asserts, “I have not undertaken to show the reason for all our penchants and ideas; I only wanted to bring out the extent to which equality has modified the one and the other” (399-400).

He notes that some readers may be surprised at the criticisms he levels against America and democracy. He responds that the task is urgent and may be unpopular, but it is necessary. He argues, “I thought that many would take it upon themselves to announce the new goods that equality promises to men, but that few would dare to point out from afar the perils with which it threatens them” (400).