James Hankins

Join James Orr, a philosopher from Cambridge, alongside David Butterfield, a Latin professor, and Harvard's Renaissance historian James Hankins. They delve into what ignites a cultural Renaissance, examining the significance of literature, music, and architecture. Joseph Conlon advocates for the power of language learning, while Gregg Hurwitz emphasizes literature's broader resonance beyond academia. The conversation weaves in thoughts from various thinkers on how communal experiences and beauty in our surroundings can foster renewal and inspire future generations.

Prof. James Hankins, a Harvard historian and Renaissance scholar, dives into the troubled legacy of Western civilization and classical education. He highlights the profound contributions of Greek thought and Roman law, emphasizing reason's role in shaping democracy. Hankins critiques the modern neglect of these traditions, lamenting the cultural amnesia in elite institutions. Yet, he offers a glimmer of hope, likening today's revival of classical education to the early Renaissance, suggesting that a cultural renaissance is within reach.

James Hankins, a Harvard historian and author of *The Golden Thread*, teams up with Michael Fontaine, a Cornell classicist, to explore the West's cultural memory. They discuss why knowing our history is vital for preserving democracy and virtue. Hankins emphasizes the fragility of cultural transmission, noting past losses of texts and the Islamic world's role in preserving knowledge. They debate how much we should cherish our traditions versus innovate, and whether a revival of the Classics requires spiritual renewal. A thought-provoking conversation on the delicate balance between past and future!