In 'Aristocratic Liberalism,' Alan S. Kahan presents a compelling analysis of three major nineteenth-century thinkers: Alexis de Tocqueville, John Stuart Mill, and Jacob Burckhardt. Kahan argues that these figures shared a common political philosophy he terms 'aristocratic liberalism.' This ideology championed individual liberty, human excellence, and high culture while expressing deep concerns about the rise of mass society, egalitarianism, and the potential for democratic despotism. The book meticulously explores how their ideas offer a vital, alternative perspective on the liberal tradition, challenging modern assumptions about democracy and providing timeless insights into the tension between liberty and equality.