The Real American Founding: Morality and Virtue

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Kyle and Juan discuss whether the government should legislate morality before introducing David Azerrad and Thomas West.

In this course, Thomas West, one of the leading scholars on the American Founding, is joined by David Azerrad, his former student and now colleague, to examine the principles of the Founders, explore the urgent political questions they faced, and reveal the choices they made to secure free government in America.   

The goal of their conversation is to move beyond a simple recitation of the abstract principles of the Founding and bring their political theory to life so we can see how the Founders approached the perennial problems of politics. 

The Founders understood that republican government not only depended upon citizens who possess justice, moderation, and industry, but it also required some citizens to possess more assertive virtues like courage and prudence. They sought to develop a virtuous character in American citizens through criminal law enforcement, political speeches and ceremonies, education, and support for religion. 

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