Opinion
‘Pursuit of happiness’ meant virtue, not pleasure, to the Founders
Modern translations typically render eudaimonia as “flourishing” or “well-being.” Translations in 1776 often translated eudaimonia as “happiness.”
Opinion
Why North Carolina needs classical education
If individuals are to find real and abiding happiness, we have to go back to our roots — the books, ideas, concepts of the Western tradition. In short, the tree must be re-rooted if it is to bear fruit again.
Opinion
‘Groundhog Day’ is more than a comedy about a dopey weatherman
In my role at a politics-focused newspaper, there aren’t a lot of opportunities to play movie critic. But it’s Groundhog Day… again, and the 1993 movie bearing that name is among my favorites, so I’ll take the liberty just this once. Or maybe it’s not such a departure from business as usual, as a quick...
Opinion
Carolina leaders should heed Cicero
North Carolina has an official state bird (the Northern Cardinal), an official state reptile (the Eastern Box Turtle), an official state insect (the honeybee), an official state mammal (the Gray Squirrel), an official saltwater fish (the Channel Bass), an official freshwater fish (the Southern Appalachian Brook Trout), an official state marsupial (the Virginia Opossum, which...
Opinion
The enduring value of classical education
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer made headlines for dodging a basic question: Should pornographic materials be in K-12 school libraries? Whitmer’s unwillingness to answer the question (which should be a resounding “No!”) is indicative of the state of mainstream education today. While many schools have excellent teachers who work within the mainstream system, public education in America is...
Opinion
Juneteenth should reinforce that we are all capable of self-government
The American civil rights movement often called the second American Revolution, confronted ingrained prejudices and the idea that some are essentially destined to be serfs.
Opinion
Entitlement is not just bad politics, but a sickness of the soul
Jussie Smollett’s release from jail mere days into his sentence for faking a hate crime reveals another example of entitlement culture run amok. It’s not just that Smollett likely got preferential treatment with his release because of his money and status, but that he never apologized or admitted any wrongdoing from his hoax. When held...
Opinion
Generosity and freedom go together
When we exercise our personal freedom within dense networks of families and other associations, we make better choices. We’re nudged in the right direction.
Opinion
Afghanistan debacle should remind us of what authentic leadership looks like
The chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan is a brutal reminder of the lack of leadership in America now. Much of the blame falls on President Biden. Yet, given the U.S. failed at an orderly retreat after its 20-year endeavor —not to mention over $1 trillion in spending on Afghanistan — a perfect symbol for an even...
Opinion
Philosopher can teach Carolina pols
If North Carolina leaders want truly to be rather than to seem, they could do far worse than heed the philosopher who wrote our motto.
Opinion
New Take on Bennett’s Virtues A Hit-and-Miss Affair
To entertain and instruct is a tough task, but a few of the writers in The Seven Deadly Virtues manage to pull it off.
Opinion
Belief In The Power of One Person’s Actions
Today is a day to remember the roles we must play in preserving and protecting a prosperous society.
