Larry Arnn: The Progressive Assault on the American Idea

Larry Arnn's "The Founder's Key" delves into the profound connection between the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Arnn masterfully demonstrates how these two foundational documents are not at odds but rather complementary expressions of the same fundamental principles. The book illuminates the principles of natural law and natural rights, emphasizing their enduring relevance. It explores the historical context of their creation and the dangers of abandoning these principles. Ultimately, "The Founder's Key" serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring wisdom of the American founding.

This biography by Eric Metaxas explores the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German pastor and theologian who actively resisted the Nazi regime. The book delves into Bonhoeffer's decision to leave the safety of America to return to Germany, his involvement in the Valkyrie plot to assassinate Hitler, and his efforts in 'Operation 7' to smuggle Jews into neutral Switzerland. Metaxas uses previously unavailable documents, including personal letters and journal entries, to provide a comprehensive and vivid account of Bonhoeffer's life, emphasizing his commitment to his faith and his radical stance against evil.

Published in 1906, 'The Jungle' follows the life of Lithuanian immigrant Jurgis Rudkus and his family as they navigate the brutal realities of working-class life in Chicago's meatpacking district, known as Packingtown. The novel highlights issues such as public health hazards, extreme poverty, and the cruel treatment of workers and animals. Despite Sinclair's intention to expose labor abuses, the public reaction primarily focused on the sanitation issues in the meatpacking industry, leading to significant legislative changes, including the passage of the U.S. Pure Food and Drug Act and the Meat Inspection Act.

The Nicomachean Ethics is Aristotle's most renowned work on ethics, focusing on the science of the good for human life. The text is divided into ten books and discusses the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' which is achieved through living a virtuous life. Aristotle argues that eudaimonia is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, emphasizing the importance of reason, moral virtues, and the pursuit of excellence. The work also explores the division of the soul, the role of rationality in human life, and the ultimate goal of human activity, which is to achieve happiness through virtuous actions and a complete life.