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CATEGORY: GREAT BOOKS (5 min)

The Dozen Books Everyone Should Read


Last week, we gave you the 50 best books of the 20th century.

But you can never have enough reading recommendations . . .

Thankfully, Bruce Riley Ashford is here to help.

In
his latest for First Things, Ashford provides the 12 books every thoughtful person should read and why.

His list of books that shaped the Western tradition includes some titles you’ve probably heard of and love . . .

And there’s a few that are probably going to shock you.

Ashford’s list is causing a lot of controversy.
Give it a read and let us know if you agree with his recommendations.
 
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CATEGORY: PHILOSOPHY (8 min)

Social Darwinism and the Natural Law


Who comes to mind when you think of political philosophers?

Probably NOT Charles Darwin.

Darwin’s theory of evolution certainly changed how we approach the physical sciences forever . . .

But it may also have been the biggest cause of the rejection of natural law in the social sciences.

Writing for Public Discourse, ISI faculty member Bradley Watson gives
an in-depth history of the impact Darwinism had on some of the most important thinkers of the 20th century.

Read it now to find out why Watson believes the rise of Social Darwinism caused the death of natural law among the intellectual classes, and the impact that death has on us today.
 
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Because our student editors and writers are bravely bringing conservative ideas to their campuses, we’re highlighting their efforts here.

After Almost Two Years, UVA Returns to In-Person Learning via the Jefferson Independent

Tribute to Our Fallen via the Miami Patriot

CATEGORY: COMMUNITY (13 min)

Why Some Communities Thrive While Others Die


Why are so many communities across America dying?

Joblessness? Addiction? Poverty?

Politicians, academics, and economists spend a lot of time talking about the crises plaguing hundreds of American towns . . . 

. . . but most of them don’t mention the communities that are thriving.

Journalist and author Timothy Carney is an exception. He explains why America is self-sorting into healthy communities of “haves” and decaying communities of “have-nots.”

Hint: It’s not about economics.

In
this week’s archive pull, the distinguished historian Wilfred M. McClay takes a close look at Carney’s argument.

Read McClay’s piece now to see what Carney gets right—and the two factors he’s overlooking.
 
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ISI’s 15th Annual Gala for Western Civilization, September 16 (Black Tie Optional) 


Don’t miss your chance to celebrate Western civilization in style at ISI’s 15th annual Gala for Western Civilization!

Join us Thursday, September 16, at the historic Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C.

You and hundreds of other ISI friends and supporters will come together to recognize the leaders, thinkers, and students who are fighting to preserve the Western tradition today.

Registration is only $50 if you’re an ISI alum under 30!

ISI’s Gala for Western Civilization will be a highlight of your year. But hurry, registration closes this Sunday!


At the Gala, you’ll hear from:
  • Fr. Paul Scalia, son of the late Supreme Court justice Antonin Scalia, who will lead us in an opening prayer
     
  • Hillsdale College president Larry Arnn, who will give the keynote address
     
  • Philanthropist Diana Davis Spencer, who will receive ISI’s Lifetime Achievement Award
     
  • Professor and author Daniel J. Mahoney, who will receive ISI’s Faculty Award

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate with other conservatives: Reserve your seat before it’s too late!
 
Reserve Your Spot Now »

“Justice always whirls in equal measure.”

—William Shakespeare, Love's Labor’s Lost

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Who We Are, What We Do


Too many college students feel isolated or attacked for questioning the ever-narrowing range of debate on campus.

We introduce you to the American tradition of liberty and to a vibrant community of students and scholars so that you get the collegiate experience you hunger for.

Get the college experience you deserve—before you graduate.
 
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