Jeffrey Rosen, CEO of National Constitution Center, discusses classical writers' influence on Founding Fathers, importance of virtue for republic survival, and resurgence of Stoic philosophy during crises like COVID. Podcast explores self-mastery, virtue, and political self-government, emphasizing character development and societal responsibilities. Rosen also delves into career journey, leadership role, and the pursuit of moral perfection amidst challenges.
Founders valued civic virtue for personal and political self-government.
Studying classical virtues cultivates self-mastery and excellence in citizens' lives and democracy.
Deep dives
Founders' Belief in Personal and Political Self-Government
The founders believed in personal self-government as a prerequisite for political self-government. They emphasized the importance of thoughtful citizens engaging in civil discourse, listening to different viewpoints, and deliberating rationally. By cultivating a civic disposition where reason prevails over passion, individuals contribute to a more informed and meaningful society.
Exploring Virtue in the Lives of Founders
Jeff Rosen discusses the classical writers' influence on the founders' virtues, as highlighted in his book 'The Pursuit of Happiness'. By studying Cicero and Stoic philosophers, the founders integrated concepts of virtue into their lives and the American constitutional framework. This exploration reveals a deeper understanding of the pursuit of happiness as aligning with excellence and self-mastery.
Importance of Civic Engagement and Enlightenment
The conversation underscores the significance of citizen engagement and education in fostering democracy and pluralism. Jeff's book sheds light on how knowledge and informed citizenship contribute to a more democratic society. By drawing on historical perspectives and classical wisdom, individuals can enrich their understanding of political philosophy and civic duty.
Transformational Impact of Virtuous Self-Governance
Jeff's book and discussion highlight the transformative nature of practicing virtue for personal and societal well-being. Emphasizing humility, tranquility of mind, and self-improvement, the founders' insights resonate in contemporary challenges. The resurgence of Stoic philosophy underscores a collective quest for meaning, self-discipline, and societal harmony, offering practical guidance for navigating complexity and uncertainty.
Jeffrey Rosen is the president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, where he hosts We the People, a weekly podcast of constitutional debate. He is also a professor of law at the George Washington University Law School and a contributing editor of The Atlantic. He was previously the legal affairs editor of The New Republic and a staff writer for The New Yorker. Rosen’s new book is The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America.
On this episode of the Templeton Ideas podcast, Jeff joins David Nassar, vice president of Strategic Engagement at the John Templeton Foundation, to delve into the influence of classical writers on the Founding Fathers, why virtue, defined as self-mastery, self-regulation, and the pursuit of the public good, is essential for the survival of a republic, and to reflect on the resurgence of interest in Stoic philosophy, particularly during times of crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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