Is the Chinese System Better than the American System? Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2023-04-06 | Stability, prosperity, and freedom. Which of the world’s super powers best provides these ideals to its people?
The Democratization of American Christianity | R.R. Reno, Nathan Hatch & Joshua Mitchell Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-10-17 | At the annual Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI) Homecoming in Wilmington, DE, one of the standout panels brought together Rusty Reno, Nathan Hatch, and Joshua Mitchell for a compelling discussion on The Democratization of American Christianity, a subject central to understanding both American religious history and its broader cultural impact. The panel, titled "The Democratization of American Christianity" explored how Christianity, particularly evangelicalism, has shaped the development of democratic ideals in the United States and how these dynamics continue to influence the present.
Brian Kilmeade in our latest episode of Daring Greatly Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-10-16 | ...
American Statesmanship from Washington to Theodore Roosevelt | Brian Kilmeade Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-10-16 | Join Johnny Burtka and Brian Kilmeade as they dive deep into what makes a great American hero. In this episode of Daring Greatly, Johnny Burtka and Brian Kilmeade discuss the role of education in molding a great-souled statesman, the challenge of rising up to the duty of leadership, and how life experience shapes the character of a statesman.Daring Greatly is the newest video series from the Intercollegiate Studies Institute. Over the course of this series, join ISI President Johnny Burtka as he explores key leadership characteristics throughout history, from ancient times to the present.LIKE AND SUBSCRIBE for the newest episodes of Daring Greatly: @EducatingForLiberty Join the ISI family to stay up to date on the latest in conservative thought: isi.org0:00 Intro1:27 The role of storytelling in political leadership5:54 The importance of everyday Americans13:34 The unique features of American heroes15:51 What it takes to be a great leader26:11 How good education shapes good leaders32:38 The importance of values and beliefs 37:58 Leading in the face of adversary and opposition44:20 What leaders can learn from sports and athletics52:33 What young people can do to become the next great American
Restoring the Republic | Ned Ryan Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-10-15 | In this insightful episode, Ned Ryun joins us to explore the pressing challenges facing American self-government today. We dive deep into the rise of the administrative state and how it erodes the foundation of our republic. Ryun offers a thought-provoking analysis of the impact of Darwinian thought on modern politics and the ways it has influenced the ruling class’s view of society.We also discuss the role of religion in shaping American rights and the moral foundation of the country, questioning what happens when public trust in governing institutions falters. Ned provides a compelling vision for how to restore the republic, rebuild public trust, and reclaim self-government for future generations.Tune in for a conversation that tackles the intersections of politics, philosophy, and the future of American freedom.
From our latest episode of Daring Greatly with Johnny Burtka Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-10-11 | ...
Statesmanship & the Common Good: Patrick Deneen Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-10-10 | Join Johnny Burtka and Patrick Deneen as they dive deep into what it means to be a statesman. In this first episode of Daring Greatly, Johnny and Deneen discuss the historical tradition of statesmanship, the relationship between Christianity and politics, and how we can revive classical virtue. Daring Greatly is the newest video series from the Intercollegiate Studies Institute. Over the course of this series, join ISI President Johnny Burtka as he explores key leadership characteristics throughout history, from ancient times to the present.LIKE AND SUBSCRIBE for the newest episodes of Daring Greatly: www.youtube.com/@EducatingForLibertyListen on SPOTIFY:open.spotify.com/show/3CxwYLbx5rDqEgEvRlvRb7Join the ISI family to stay up to date on the latest in conservative thought: isi.org0:00 Intro1:15 The danger of power4:02 What makes a good advisor8:25 The relationship between the philosopher and the statesman12:22 Are we bound by our government and its regime?17:27 Jumping into Aristotle 22:06 Can we separate politics from education?24:34 The legacy of Christianity and the end of politics27:27 Reviving our long-term vision30:25 The formation of the good soul and virtue37:25 The lack of statesmanship in modern times38:46 What is the “common good”?46:45 Is America achieving the common good? 51:45 What can we learn from Cicero?56:02 The impact of Christianity on politics1:04:35 Christianity and Machiavelli1:11:35 The emergence of liberalism1:14:06 Christianity: private life or public religion? 1:20:08 Building a Christian, conservative foundation1:27:52 What does the education of a statesman look like#PatrickDeneen #JohnnyBurtka #Cicero #Philosophy #Faith #WesternCanon #Politics #WhyLiberalismFailed #Liberalism #Modernity #Education #Statesmanship
Religion, Law, and the Common Good | Josh Craddock Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-10-08 | In this episode, Josh Craddock joins Tom Sarrouf for a thought-provoking conversation hosted in collaboration with the Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI). Together, they explore the complex interplay between religion and law, how civic friendship shapes our public life, and the role of the law as a mediator in a pluralistic society. Tune in for a deep dive into the philosophical and legal questions surrounding community, justice, and the common good.If you enjoyed this discussion, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations like this!
Reagan & Nixon Revisited | George Will, Lord Conrad Black, Dan McCarthy, & Susan Hanssen Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-10-03 | This dynamic panel discussion, held at the Intercollegiate Studies Institute’s annual Homecoming event, brought together four leading voices in conservative thought to explore the legacies of two pivotal American presidents—Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan. Moderated by Dr. Susan Hanssen, associate professor of history at the University of Dallas, the conversation delved into the complex political and intellectual histories of these two figures and their impact on American conservatism.The panel featured:Lord Conrad Black, renowned historian and former media mogul, who offered insights drawn from his biographies of Nixon and his broader reflections on American politics, placing Nixon’s accomplishments and shortcomings in the context of post-war conservatism.George Will, the eminent political columnist and author, known for his elegant prose and deep conservatism, who provided a critical perspective on the Reagan Revolution, discussing Reagan’s transformation of the Republican Party and his role in shaping the modern conservative movement.Dan McCarthy, editor of Modern Age, contributed a nuanced understanding of how both Nixon and Reagan’s administrations navigated foreign policy challenges and built new conservative coalitions, highlighting how their legacies continue to influence the American right today.Dr. Hanssen, with her expertise in American intellectual history, expertly guided the discussion, weaving together the panelists’ perspectives and prompting them to consider how Reagan and Nixon’s distinct approaches to governance, public rhetoric, and policy have shaped the ongoing debates within conservatism.The panel offered a robust and thoughtful examination of these two towering figures, sparking lively debate and drawing valuable connections between their historical legacies and the contemporary conservative movement.
From a recent lecture given by Andrew Willard Jones. Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-09-28 | ...
Protestantism and Institutions in the United States | Dr. Miles Smith Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-09-26 | Join us for an insightful lecture by Dr. Miles Smith from Hillsdale College, delivered at the ISI Annual Honors Conference. In "The Religious Republic: Protestantism and Institutions in the United States," Dr. Smith explores the profound impact of Protestantism on the development of American institutions and the nation's cultural and political landscape.Delving into the historical roots of the United States, Dr. Smith examines how Protestant values shaped the country's founding principles, governance structures, and civic life. From the influence on early educational and political systems to the enduring legacy on American identity, this lecture offers a deep dive into the religious underpinnings that have helped define the American Republic.This lecture is perfect for anyone interested in American history, the role of religion in public life, and the intersection of faith and governance. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a richer understanding of the foundational elements that continue to shape the United States today.
Flannery O’Connor: Faith in Fiction with Alex Taylor Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-09-24 | In this insightful episode, hosts Marlo Slayback and Tom Sarrouf are joined by Dr. Alex Taylor, Assistant Professor of English at Christendom College, for an engaging discussion on one of America's most compelling literary figures—Flannery O'Connor. Together, they explore the profound Catholic themes that run through O'Connor's stories, her unique use of the grotesque to reveal grace, and the enduring relevance of her work in a culture increasingly distant from traditional faith.From the shocking moments in her fiction that awaken characters to divine realities to the deeper philosophical and theological questions O'Connor wrestled with, Dr. Taylor brings a rich theological perspective to the conversation. Whether you're a longtime fan of O'Connor or new to her work, this episode provides fresh insights into how her stories challenge, inspire, and provoke deeper reflection on the human condition.Join us as we delve into O'Connor’s world and discuss how her Southern Gothic style and deeply Catholic worldview continue to resonate today.
Phillip Blond: The Case for Empire Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-09-19 | In this thought-provoking interview hosted by the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, Phillip Blond sits down with Johnny Burtka to explore an alternative vision of American history and conservatism.Together, they discuss whether a universal American Empire is possible and what that could mean for the future of conservatism, national identity, and the global role of the United States. Don't miss this engaging conversation that rethinks the past to envision a new conservative path forward.
The Ghost in the AI Machine | Gene Callahan Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-09-17 | In this episode, we sit down with Eugene Callahan, economist, philosopher, and author, to explore the deep and often overlooked connections between computer science and the humanities. Drawing from his recent article "The Ghost in the AI Machine" in Modern Age Journal, Eugene delves into the profound implications of AI and technology on human life. We discuss the nature of intelligence from a human perspective and examine the philosophical risks posed by the rapid advance of AI. Eugene shares his insights on the proper limits of technology, questioning whether our pursuit of technical progress might be leading us astray from the core human values that the liberal arts strive to preserve. Join us as we navigate the complex terrain where technology meets philosophy, and consider what it truly means to be intelligent in an increasingly automated world.
Medieval Foundations of Limited Government | Dr. Andrew Willard Jones Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-09-12 | In this insightful lecture delivered at ISI's Annual Student Honors Conference, Dr. Andrew Willard Jones explores the medieval roots of limited government, delving into how freedom and power were balanced in the feudal world. Drawing on his deep expertise in medieval history, Dr. Jones challenges modern assumptions about the Middle Ages, revealing how the concepts of personal liberty and localized authority laid the groundwork for Western political traditions.Dr. Jones argues that the medieval system, often misunderstood as oppressive, actually fostered a dynamic interplay between lords, vassals, and the Church, creating a society where authority was distributed, and freedom was negotiated within a framework of mutual obligations. He traces how these medieval ideas of governance, rooted in Christian thought and feudal practice, contributed to the development of limited government and the protection of individual rights.Join us as Dr. Jones takes us on a journey back to the feudal world, offering a fresh perspective on how the medieval past continues to shape our understanding of freedom and government today. Whether you're a student of history, politics, or philosophy, this lecture provides a compelling look at the origins of concepts that remain central to contemporary debates.Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content on history, philosophy, and the foundations of Western civilization!
Freedom, Tradition, and the Digital Age | Brad Littlejohn Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-09-10 | In this episode, we sit down with Brad Littlejohn, a Fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center and a leading voice in the intersection of Christian ethics and public life. Brad dives into the themes of his latest book, Called to Freedom: Retrieving Christian Liberty in an Age of License (Christ in Everything), where he explores the delicate balance between autonomy and restraint in the Christian understanding of freedom. Together, we unpack how tradition and authority can guide us in an age that often prioritizes individualism at the expense of community and virtue.The conversation also delves into Brad's recent article at American Compass, where he examines the pervasive impact of digital technology and social media on our social and political lives. We discuss how the online world shapes our perceptions, relationships, and behaviors, and what this means for the future of public discourse and societal well-being. Brad offers insights into the dangers of unbridled freedom in the digital age and the need for thoughtful engagement with technology that honors human dignity and fosters genuine community.Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on tradition, freedom, autonomy, and the boundaries that keep us grounded in an ever-shifting landscape. Whether you're interested in the philosophical underpinnings of liberty or the practical implications of living out these values in a digital world, this episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of modern life through the lens of Christian wisdom.
Michael Knowles on Dante and the Politics of Pilgrimage Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-09-05 | Join us for a captivating lecture by Michael Knowles at our Annual Student Honors Conference, where he explores the intriguing topic of "Dante and the Politics of Pilgrimage." In this thought-provoking presentation, Knowles delves into Dante Alighieri's epic journey through the Divine Comedy, examining the political and philosophical implications of pilgrimage as a metaphor for personal and societal transformation. Discover how Dante's insights into human nature, governance, and virtue remain profoundly relevant in today's world. Whether you're a student of literature, politics, or philosophy, this lecture offers a unique perspective on one of history's most influential poets. Don't miss out on Michael Knowles' engaging analysis of Dante's enduring legacy!
David Hume: Philosophy, Politics, and the Conservative Mind | Aaron Zubia Intercollegiate Studies Institute 2024-09-03 | This week on the podcast, hosts Marlo Slayback and Tom Sarrouf sit down with Aaron Zubia to delve into the life and philosophy of David Hume. Join them as they explore Hume's background and his pivotal role in the Scottish Enlightenment. They discuss Hume's Epicureanism and skepticism, examining how these ideas shaped his thought and influenced modern philosophy. The conversation turns to Hume's views on conservatism and liberalism, sparking a debate on whether conservatives can reconcile with liberal politics today. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion and leave with some recommended readings to deepen your understanding of Hume's enduring impact.
