Philosophy

How Buddhist Insights Strengthen Liberalism

Ancient philosophy can show us why liberalism matters, why it works, and why being liberal is a better way to live.

Politics as a Tool: Shaping Society for Good

Before we can do politics well, we need to know why we do politics in the first place.

An Introduction to Politics for Good People

A New Framework for Understanding Politics

The Basic Case for Liberalism

Change and diversity are inevitable and good—and our politics should reflect that.

“Social Liberalization” in Opposition to “Social Conservatism”

Two Kinds of Moral Thinking

What It Means to View Ethics as a Practice

Twitter/X as a Bubble for Bad Ethics

X is no longer representative of the national discourse. But many of our journalists and thought leaders believe it is—and that's bad for them, and for our national character.

The Misuse of Meritocracy

On men who convince themselves they are the only true meritocrats because women somehow don‘t understand or don‘t appreciate the idea of merit.

What is Ethics?

Defining ethics and distinguishing it from morality is crucial for clear philosophical thought.

How LEGOs Can Help Us Understand Identity in Liberal Societies

A family parable about forging a sense of place and meaning—and what it says about the liberal project.

Liberty Upsets Patterns—and Conservatism

Liberty is dynamic. Conservatism is static. They cannot coexist.

If Your Faith Makes You a Bigot, It's Time to Question Your Faith

Some more likely possibilities to consider before accepting that God believes it's wrong to be LGBT.

Social Conservatism is Suffering

We cannot make permanent what is inevitably impermanent, and insisting otherwise brings distress. Better to embrace dynamism and social diversity.

Surround Yourself With Those Who Are Admirable, and Distance Yourself From Those Who Aren’t.

An examination of the place of admirable friendship in an ethical life.