Acton Line

How should you allocate your personal wealth? How do the decisions you make regarding personal wealth impact your character? In his Acton Lecture Series talk, Kenneth Elzinga discussed Christian stewardship and proposed a new way to think about the relationship between “donor” and “receiver.” Before his lecture, Professor Elzinga sat down with Acton Alumni and Student Programs Manager Noah Gould for a preview. They discussed the professor’s journey to faith, his finding a calling in economics, the importance of the NCAA Supreme Court case he testified in, and Christian philanthropy. Subscribe to our podcasts  Ken ElzingaGiving Is Not God’s Way of Raising Money Acton On-Demand

Ruchir Sharma, an insightful author, discusses the transformation of capitalism and the detrimental rise of bailout culture. He argues that government intervention has shifted from minimal support to overwhelming assistance, creating a system that protects the wealthy while burdening taxpayers. Sharma warns about the emergence of 'zombie companies' post-pandemic and critiques the Federal Reserve's expanded role in market interventions. He advocates for a return to capitalism's core principles, urging reforms to restore competition and reduce government overreach.

Ismael Hernandez, an author dedicated to authentic poverty relief, shares insightful perspectives on rethinking how we approach charity. He argues that viewing the poor as capable individuals rather than mere victims can lead to more respectful and effective assistance. He discusses his journey from a Marxist upbringing to founding the Freedom and Virtue Institute, emphasizing empowerment through self-determination. Furthermore, he critiques common narratives surrounding poverty in America, advocating for personal connections and local involvement in addressing these complex issues.

Dr. Umi Waheeda, co-founder of Indonesia's Al Ashriyyah Nurul Iman Islamic boarding school, shares her inspiring journey from adversity to entrepreneurship. She highlights the importance of education, especially for girls, in combating societal challenges. Following her husband's death, Dr. Waheeda faced numerous hurdles while managing 15,000 children's welfare. Her innovative self-sustainability approach through student-run businesses empowers communities, fostering a new generation of job creators driven by social responsibility.

Daniel Silliman, a historian and news editor for Christianity Today, dives into Richard Nixon's unique spiritual journey in his new book. He explores Nixon's Quaker roots and how they shaped his political career. The discussion reveals Nixon's complex relationship with faith, highlighting his struggles for divine acceptance amidst political chaos. Key moments, including his response to the 1960 election loss and the lasting impact of Norman Vincent Peale's philosophy, illustrate Nixon's quest for redemption and validate the universal longing for grace.

Jeremy Beer, an expert on philanthropy and identity, dives deep into the evolving landscape of charitable giving. He discusses how narratives and personal identities play a crucial role in effective philanthropy. The conversation touches on America's unique philanthropic culture and contrasts it with European models. Beer highlights the notable decline in giving among younger generations linked to diminishing religious affiliations. The episode encourages a more thoughtful approach to charitable efforts and emphasizes the importance of authentic relationships in philanthropy.

Kevin Vallier, an insightful author, delves into his book on integralism and post-liberalism, shedding light on the surprising revival of faith-based political ideologies today. He discusses the growing interest among college students in Catholic integralism, addressing cultural tensions within the Catholic community. Vallier also critiques modern liberalism's effects on Catholic identity and explores the evolution of anti-liberal alliances post-Dobbs, revealing their implications for the future of political movements.

In today’s episode, we bring you one of the plenary talks from Acton University 2024. Here Dr. John Tomasi, a distinguished political philosopher and president of Heterodox Academy, delves into the critical role played by universities in supporting a free society.  Subscribe to our podcasts Acton University Acton On-Demand Heterodox Academy 

Each summer, the Acton Institute welcomes a cohort of students to Grand Rapids, Michigan, as part of our Emerging Leaders Program. This leadership-development program is not your typical internship. Students from across the United States and around the globe get to participate in eight weeks of seminars, networking, and Acton events to develop professional experience, grow their network, and go deeper into the ideas of a free and virtuous society. In this episode, Noah Gould, Acton alumni and student programs manager, talks to three Emerging Leaders about how they found Acton, how they’ve spent their summer, and how they’ll take what they’ve learned into their future vocations. Emerging Leaders Program

Yuval Levin, an influential author and policy expert, argues that the Constitution can heal America's political divides rather than cause them. He discusses the importance of unity as framed by the Constitution and critiques misconceptions surrounding key elements like the electoral college. Levin emphasizes the need for political reforms that reconnect governance with constitutional principles and advocates for a clear separation of powers. He concludes with a hopeful vision for collective action in renewing American democracy.