Lesson Plan

The Omnipotence of the Majority

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

While the American system is based on the idea of almost-universal suffrage for adults, great thinkers have had concerns about this system of governance. Using classic writings from Alexis de Tocqueville and videos highlighting thinkers such as Plato and Socrates, learners consider whether voters have the wisdom necessary to make good decisions about leadership. 

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CCSS: Designed
Instructional Ideas
  • Analyze Tocqueville's critique of democracy using the excerpts and discussion questions
  • Discuss included video that discusses Socrates' concerns about democracy
Classroom Considerations
  • First of three lessons included in the Tyranny of the Majority unit
Pros
  • Primary source worksheets include vocabulary exercises
  • Answer keys make the lesson easy to use in class
Cons
  • None
Common Core