Arts & Culture, Book & Movie Reviews, History, Philosophy
Socrates: Dramatizing the History of Western Thought
Tim Blake Nelson’s excellent play retells the story of one of the West’s first great philosophers—Socrates.
Robert Begley's Articles
Prince Henry Launched the Age of Discovery
After reason had been smothered during the Dark and Middle Ages, Prince Henry helped to light the world with knowledge.
Robert Morris: America’s Financial Atlas
This self-made immigrant helped make the Revolution possible, then laid the foundation for America’s essentially capitalist financial policies.
Steve Ditko’s Legacy: From Superheroes to Moral Heroes
Steve Ditko created art that “shows how men could and should act,” heroes without tragic flaws, and a universe where justice triumphs.
The Brooklyn Bridge: A Monument to the Human Spirit
On May 24, 1883 the Brooklyn Bridge opened for public use. It was a triumph over nature, doomsayers, and corrupt politicians.
‘No Man Swings More or Stands Higher Than the Duke’
Duke Ellington crafted a sound that “literally lifts one out of one’s seat.” He flourished despite widespread racism and opened the doors of the world from behind his piano. Celebrate the Duke’s birthday with a taste of the unrestrained joy he brought to music and life.
Jackie Robinson: ‘The Best Kind of American Hero’
On April 15, 1947, Jack Roosevelt “Jackie” Robinson not only changed the complexion of baseball, he changed America.
Good Living, Politics & Rights
Toastmasters: A Means to Actualize Your Potential and Improve the Culture
Toastmasters can help you learn to speak more confidently and eloquently—and thus to be a more effective advocate of reason and freedom.
Patrick Henry’s ‘Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death!’ Speech
On March 23, 1775, Patrick Henry delivered one of the most important and dramatic speeches in American history. May Henry’s words live on and inspire all who continue fighting for freedom.
Hamilton’s Bank of New York Put the City Back in Business and the U.S. on the Map
If we trace the steps of New York’s rise as the financial capital of the world, we must recognize that establishing the Bank of New York was a pivotal moment in history.
The Federalist Essays Brought the U.S. Constitution to Life
Today in 1787, Alexander Hamilton published the first of the Federalist essays, which helped secure ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
Alexander McCobin on Students For Liberty
Robert Begley interviews Alexander McCobin, cofounder of Students For Liberty, who provides an inside look at how SFL got started, its accomplishments to date, how it has expanded to practically every corner of the globe, and what the organization has in store for the future.
In Memory of Bruce Rickard
Bruce Rickard, a good friend of mine and charter subscriber to TOS, recently succumbed to brain cancer, after a 28-month-long battle against the disease. One of Bruce’s distinguishing characteristics was his radiant benevolence. Bruce fought this terribly aggressive brain tumor with grace and courage, and was an example to everyone. . . Continue »
In Honor of the U.S. Constitution and the Men Who Created It
On September 17, 1787, the Founding Fathers signed the United States Constitution, laying the foundation for the first nation in history based on the recognition of the inalienable rights of man.
An interview with Rachel Miner about Learning at Our House
Learning at Our House is a suite of products for homeschoolers that covers history, music, literature, and science. The classes are taught online to a live audience and are available as recordings as well. Scott Powell created History at Our House, the original program, and later invited others to create. . . Continue »