Join Jeffrey Rosen, a law professor and president of the National Constitution Center, as he explores the self-improvement philosophies of the Founding Fathers. He reveals how they viewed happiness as tied to virtue and personal growth, not just satisfaction. Discover the routines and self-examination practices that helped them pursue excellence. Rosen also discusses how Benjamin Franklin's 13 virtues can guide modern self-improvement efforts, emphasizing that personal mastery benefits not just the individual, but society as a whole.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Naima Reza moderates a captivating debate on happiness featuring Jeffrey Rosen, the CEO of the National Constitution Center and author on virtue's impact on American values. They tackle whether happiness should derive from virtue or pleasure, referencing philosophical giants like Socrates and Aristotle. The conversation highlights the significance of self-mastery, meaningful relationships, and the impact of income inequality. Ultimately, they balance the intertwined pursuit of pleasure and virtue in leading a fulfilling life.

Jeffrey Rosen argues for virtue as a source of happiness, referencing classical writers and the Founding Fathers. The debate explores whether happiness should come from virtue or pleasure, drawing from Stoics, Aristotle, and Locke. Discussions include the importance of self-control, long-term happiness versus short-term pleasures, and the balance between enjoyment and well-being in life.

Jeffrey Rosen, a law professor and legal commentator, dives deep into the influence of Stoic philosophy on America’s founding principles. He discusses how leaders like Washington and Jefferson embodied self-mastery and virtue, shaping a strong governance model. Rosen also explores the enduring relevance of Stoicism in today's tumultuous times, emphasizing the necessity of balance and character in leadership. He reflects on the transformative power of reading and how classical teachings can inspire modern self-improvement, promoting a path to happiness.

In this episode, Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, talks with C-SPAN’s Peter Slen about the life and career of Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. The conversation is part of C-SPAN’s Books That Shaped America series, which explores key works from American history that have had a major impact on society. This discussion features Holmes’ The Common Law, written in 1881. You can find all segments from the C-SPAN series at c-span.org/booksthatshapedamerica. Resources:Oliver Wendell Holmes, “The Common Law,” (1881) Questions or comments about the show? Email us at podcast@constitutioncenter.org.Continue today’s conversation on Facebook and Twitter using @ConstitutionCtr. Sign up to receive Constitution Weekly, our email roundup of constitutional news and debate, at bit.ly/constitutionweekly.You can find transcripts for each episode on the podcast pages in our Media Library.

Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center and a law professor at George Washington University, discusses the founders' fears of tyranny and draws parallels between Donald Trump's leadership style and Julius Caesar's dictatorship. The conversation delves into the cyclical nature of political power, the implications of executive overreach, and how the Supreme Court is responding to these challenges. Rosen emphasizes the importance of understanding history to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past as America grapples with the rise of demagoguery.

Jeffrey Rosen, President & CEO of the National Constitution Center, discusses how the founders' education and reading habits influenced American leadership. Topics include Greek and Roman philosophy, the decline of reading, the power of self-teaching, education programs, and the influence of classical writers on virtue and the founders.

Join Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center, as he unveils the deep connection between happiness, virtue, and personal responsibility shaped by the philosophies of Jefferson and Franklin. He emphasizes prioritizing long-term virtue over fleeting gratification, offering practical advice for self-mastery. Delving into the principles of self-governance, Rosen highlights how moral integrity and constitutional understanding are essential for a thriving society, inspiring a thoughtful exploration of what it truly means to pursue happiness.

Jeffrey Rosen, CEO of the National Constitution Center and law professor at George Washington University, dives deep into how ancient philosophies shaped America’s founders. He discusses the concerning shift from virtue-based happiness to a pleasure-seeking mentality starting in the 1960s. Rosen emphasizes the need for moral education and the vital role of deep reading in cultivating civic virtue. He also highlights Benjamin Franklin's dedication to self-education and its relevance in today's society, urging a revival of character education.

Jeffrey Rosen, President of the National Constitution Center, discusses the founders' view on self-government, the pursuit of happiness, and the importance of virtue for democracy. He explores stoicism, deep reading, and historical figures' advice on self-improvement.