Yale University Press Podcast Jennifer Banks in Conversation with Anthony T. Kronman
Oct 23, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Anthony T. Kronman, Sterling Professor of Law at Yale, shares insights from his book, True Conservatism. He defines conservatism as a cautious disposition that values inherited wisdom and guards against power. Kronman discusses the tension between human aspirations and modesty, critiques Enlightenment values, and emphasizes the importance of time in shaping political change. He draws lessons from Burke and Spinoza, advocating for a respectful engagement with the past rather than mere utilitarian views.
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Conservatism As A Temperament
- Conservatism is a temperament that values caution, slow change, and the protection of inherited social arrangements.
- Anthony T. Kronman ties conservatism to conserving humanity against dangers from power and extravagant pursuits.
Extravagance Versus Modesty
- Extravagance drives philosophy, science, and religion to seek the transcendent and absolute.
- Modesty must counterbalance that drive to preserve a cohabited human world and toleration.
Kafka's Archimedean Parable
- Kronman recounts Kafka's parable of the man who finds the Archimedean point and must use it against himself.
- The parable illustrates modern power: we can remake the world but must remake ourselves in the process.
