In 1949, Harlan Cleveland introduced the concept of a revolution of rising expectations, which in his Cold War context he considered particularly relevant to the Third World. According to the Tocqueville effect, a revolution is likely to occur after an improvement in social conditions, in contrast to Marx's theory of revolution as a result of progressive immiseration of the proletariat (deterioration of conditions). The effect suggests a link between social equality or concessions by the regime and unintended consequences, as social reforms can raise expectations that can't be matched. For instance, after greater social justice is achieved, there may be more fervent opposition to even smaller social injustices than before. Another way to describe the effect is the aphorism 'the appetite grows by what it feeds on'. The effect is based on Alexis de Tocqueville's observations on the French Revolution and later reforms in Europe and the United States. If you are interested in learning more about contributing as a leadership giver, please contact United Way of West Alabama at 20 or for more information.The Tocqueville effect (also known as the Tocqueville paradox) is the phenomenon in which, as social conditions and opportunities improve, social frustration grows more quickly. View a complete history of the Family of the Year honorees. Alexis de Tocqueville Society and Young Leaders Society Social (Spring)Ģ021 FAMILY OF THE YEAR - Shelley and Tom Jones.Babe Ruth McAbee Steak and Lobster Feast (Fall).

Enables you to direct your charitable giving to one trusted source rather than giving separate gifts to a variety of your favorite charitable organizations and causes.

Support 26 local partner service agencies (See list here.).

Directly affect more than 13,000 local children annually through United Way's Success By 6, JumpStart programs, and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.

Immediate and long lasting benefits in our community.

This notable society is designed to deepen the understanding, commitment and support of United Way. The name was chosen for 19th century French diplomat Alexis de Tocqueville's admiration for the spirit of voluntary association and voluntary effort for the common good, a spirit he had observed in America and about which he wrote enthusiastically. We are grateful to our members who show their passion by contributing time, talent and financial resources to help transform West Alabama. Here in West Alabama, our elite group of local philanthropists is an alliance of successful, community-minded individuals and business leaders who invest $10,000 or more annually.

The hallmark of an Alexis de Tocqueville Society member is a special level of commitment to making a positive impact.