The Secrets of Statecraft
Conrad Black’s Extraordinary Magnum Opus | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Mar 27, 2024
Conrad Black, author of a thousand-page history of the Ancient World, discusses the importance of studying ancient civilizations and historical figures in politics. He explores concepts like the great man theory of history, statesmanship, and the impact of philosophy on political leaders. The podcast also delves into 'what if' scenarios in history, including the consequences of an extended life for Alexander the Great.
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Quick takeaways
- Studying ancient civilizations like Rome and Greece provides insight into consistent human nature throughout history.
- Thoughtful leadership should prioritize governance improvements and tax reductions over constant war-making policies.
Deep dives
Conrad Black's Motivation for Writing the Book
Conrad Black embarked on the monumental task of writing a comprehensive political and strategic history of the world in three volumes, starting from antiquity to the Roman Empire. His motivation stemmed from a personal desire for a magnum opus and a broader aim to portray the evolution of how people were organized and interacted across various civilizations.
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