French political philosopher Pierre Manent has given us all a great gift in his new book Natural Law and Human Rights: Toward a Recovery of Practical Reason. First published in French in 2018, this work is recently available in an English translation by Ralph Hancock. Manent’s concern with practical reason (as opposed to mere theory) … Continue reading Debunking Natural Rights and Recovering Natural Law
When asked to define conservatism, the average person would likely rattle off a list of policy positions. Conservatives are for lower taxes, smaller government, stronger defense, and more traditional values. Liberals, on the other hand, favor higher taxes on the wealthy, a more generous welfare state, a smaller defense budget, and more progressive social norms. But this brings … Continue reading Edmund Burke, the French Revolution, and What It Means to Be Conservative
Today When I was a child I saw the world through eyes that shone with every color – of turquoise, emerald, crimson, gold, and each rich shade of sister and brother. But when this vision grew too bright, I made myself a private night. Dark shades I wore to block the day – Today I decided to put … Continue reading Today – A Poem
The Front Porch Philosopher 