George Will on the Conservative Sensibility

Published in 1939, 'The Grapes of Wrath' is a powerful and poignant novel by John Steinbeck. It tells the story of the Joad family, Oklahoma tenant farmers who are forced to leave their home after the devastating effects of the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression. The novel follows their arduous journey along Route 66 to California, where they face numerous hardships, including poverty, exploitation, and the loss of family members. The book explores themes of family, survival, and the struggle for human dignity in the face of overwhelming adversity. It also delves into the broader social and economic issues of the time, highlighting the conflict between the powerful and the powerless. Steinbeck's work is known for its vivid portrayal of the human condition and its impact on American literature and society.

Harry Jaffa's "Crisis of the House Divided" is a seminal work exploring the Lincoln-Douglas debates. Jaffa analyzes Lincoln's arguments against Stephen Douglas, highlighting Lincoln's defense of natural rights and critique of popular sovereignty. The book emphasizes Lincoln's understanding of the Declaration of Independence as a foundational document for American political thought. Jaffa's interpretation of Lincoln's ideas has significantly influenced American conservative thought, particularly within the Claremont Institute. The book's enduring relevance lies in its exploration of fundamental questions about equality, liberty, and the nature of American democracy.

In this book, George F. Will provides a richly documented history and argument for a wider embrace of conservative political values. He discusses how the Founders' vision, as articulated in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, has shaped American political tradition. Will argues that conservatism is under threat from both progressives and elements within the Republican Party, and he critiques the growth of the administrative state, the failure of Congress to exercise its legislative powers, and the erosion of constitutional principles. The book is a deep and sustained reflection on American conservatism, emphasizing the importance of natural rights, limited government, and the transmission of Western historical heritage.

In this classic work, Hayek restates the ideals of freedom that he believes have guided the growth of Western civilization. The book is divided into three parts: 'The Value of Freedom,' which provides the philosophical foundation and justification of a free society; 'Freedom and the Law,' which discusses the development of the Rule of Law; and 'Freedom in the Welfare State,' which examines various areas of contemporary policy in light of the principles developed earlier. Hayek argues that liberty is essential for innovation and progress, and he warns against excessive government control and the stifling of spontaneous forces in society. He also explores the balance between individual freedoms and necessary government intervention, emphasizing the importance of the rule of law in ensuring individual liberty within a democratic society.

In 'I, Pencil,' Leonard Read uses the humble pencil as a metaphor to explain the intricate web of global cooperation and specialization that underlies modern production. The essay emphasizes the concept of the 'invisible hand,' demonstrating how millions of people contribute to the creation of a simple pencil without a central authority directing them. This work serves as a powerful introduction to the principles of free market economics and the interconnectedness of human endeavors.

In this influential book, Hayek argues that the abandonment of individualism and classical liberalism leads to a loss of freedom, the creation of an oppressive society, and ultimately, the tyranny of a dictator. He challenges the view that fascism and Nazism are capitalist reactions against socialism, instead positing that these ideologies share common roots in central economic planning and the empowerment of the state over the individual. The book emphasizes the dangers of collectivism and the importance of maintaining a free market system to preserve human freedom and dignity.

This book is a brilliant biography of the young Theodore Roosevelt, covering his life from 1869 to 1886. It explores his struggle with asthma, his family's influence, and his transformation into a robust and determined individual. The narrative delves into the Roosevelt family's history, their social context, and the pivotal moments in American history that shaped Theodore's life. McCullough's work is based on extensive research, including thousands of letters from the Roosevelt family, providing a deep insight into the life of a well-to-do Victorian American family and the formative years of one of America's most iconic presidents.

The book describes the 100 years following 1870 as the 'Special Century,' a period of revolutionary growth and prosperity driven by innovations such as electric lighting, indoor plumbing, motor vehicles, air travel, and television. Gordon argues that this era of growth has been flatlining since 1970, marked by growing inequality, stagnating education, an aging population, and rising debt. He contends that the productivity growth of the past cannot be repeated and identifies several 'headwinds' that will continue to slow American economic growth. The book is divided into two main parts, covering the period from 1870 to 1940 and from 1940 to 2010, and includes detailed statistical analysis and historical anecdotes to support its arguments.

In 'Madison's Metronome', Greg Weiner examines how James Madison's political philosophy emphasized the importance of time in moderating passions and ensuring reasoned decision-making. The book delves into Madison's views on majority rule, the Constitution, and the tempo of American politics, highlighting the tension between democratic principles and the need for deliberation.