Final answer:
De Tocqueville's observation supports the characteristics of a good citizen by highlighting the importance of actively participating in civic duties and forming voluntary associations to benefit the community. Good citizenship involves civic responsibilities like obeying the law and paying taxes, and extends to broader civic engagement for a functioning democracy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Alexis de Tocqueville's observation supports the characteristics of a good citizen by emphasizing the importance of actively participating in civic duties. This is seen through his admiration for Americans in the 1830s forming voluntary associations to solve community problems and support each other. Good citizenship is linked to moral responsibility and acceptance of a nation's political principles, which include an obligation to partake in civic responsibilities that go beyond self-interest, such as obeying the law and paying taxes. Engaging in civic responsibilities aligns with the good of the community and the exercise of civic virtue, which are critical for the functioning of a healthy representative democracy.
Individuals are encouraged to contribute to society not only by voting but through various forms of civic engagement such as community service, volunteering, and participating in communal decision-making. This engagement contributes to the well-being of the community and supports civil liberties. Therefore, by ignoring civic responsibilities or strictly focusing on personal interests, one would not be demonstrating the qualities of a good citizen.