Acton Institute

Why do we still care about Lord Acton? He fused his faith with a fierce commitment to intellectual freedom. As editor of The Rambler, the renowned Catholic magazine, Acton navigated the turbulent waters of Victorian Catholicism. His evergreen wisdom reverberated through academia and quietly smuggled its way into popular culture – including in the form of a nod on Star Trek. (Yes, really). He tirelessly advocated for open dialogue and rigorous scholarship. And he battled both ecclesiastical censure and narrow-minded triumphalism, aiming to harmonize religious authority with scientific truth. Acton’s legacy lies in his unyielding pursuit of truth and liberty. His life and work remind us of the enduring importance of critical inquiry and moral courage. Jump into the comments for the full story. ⬇️ #leadership #literature #catholic #theology

Why are we so divided on the limits of free speech? Is the foundation of free expression crumbling under its own contradictions? That's what one new book attempts to argue. It's a perspective that is vividly illustrated through emblematic cases from recent public controversies. But it leaves one lingering question unanswered: Who ultimately determines what speech is good or harmful? #freespeech #firstamendment #law #politicalscience

Remember the Free Speech Movement? It's hardly recognizable today. Modern campus protests have strayed far from their roots, embracing a form of activism that is more about control than liberation. These movements, often couched in the language of old-school civil rights protests, work in practice against the inclusivity they claim to promote. By blocking free discourse and punishing dissent, they betray the legacy of the 1960s' push for open expression. What's unfolding now is a strategic, calculated effort to reshape public spaces and discourse in a way that leaves little room for genuine dissent or discussion. #freespeech #highereducation #debate

Can one maintain integrity in a den of thieves? Harry Truman did. Amidst the pervasive corruption, he stood firm on his commitment to fair play. Even when it made him unpopular with his own supporters. By ensuring that public projects were awarded fairly and executed properly, he saved taxpayers money and built a reputation for honesty and effectiveness. His journey from a local judge to a national leader underscores the power of principled leadership. Jump into the comments for the full story. ⬇️ #democracy #history #americanhistory #quotes

Announcement: Our president Matt Paprocki will deliver a special address at Acton Institute's Chicago Luncheon next week. Details: 📅 May 17, 2024 🕒 11:30 a.m. 🎟️ acton.swoogo.com/chicago 📍 University Club of Chicago Register today! We look forward to seeing you there. #chicago #catholic #publicpolicy #theology

Are we losing the plot? A new series might make you think so. “Shogun” offers a rich tapestry of characters and historical intrigue. But it struggles with its own narrative coherence. It ambitiously attempts to tackle themes of loyalty, power, and cultural identity. But it too often feels like it's merely skimming the surface. The interaction between characters from wildly different backgrounds promises depth but seldom delivers. It leaves the viewer wanting more from the exchanges that could have driven the narrative forward. Despite its shortcomings, "Shogun" remains a valuable piece for those interested in the interplay of history and personal ambition. And it serves as a primer of its era. Jump into the comments for the full story. ⬇️ #netflix #streaming #popculture #quotes

Imagine a church that welcomes even umbrella thieves. G.K. Chesterton's famous conversion story reinforces an essential aspect of Catholicism: Its universal embrace. It's a crucial foundational principle. And that’s all the more true at a time when the Catholic Church is navigating societal divides and internal dissent. The dialogue within the church sees a community wrestling with – but ultimately driven by – a deep faith in its mission. Debates will rage over religious relevance and the direction under Pope Francis. But the Church's enduring camaraderie among its leaders and the grassroots fervor for deep, meaningful engagement with faith offers a robust path forward. Jump into the comments for the full story. ⬇️ #theology #quotes #catholic

Do life’s constant changes overwhelm you? One author may have a solution. Marvin Olasky has lived his life at the crossroads of major cultural shifts. His new memoir, “Pivot Points: Adventures on the Road to Christian Contentment,” chronicles it in depth. From a radical-left ideologue to a leading voice of Christian journalism, Olasky's journey is marked by dramatic conversions and unanticipated turns. And it’s underpinned by a profound realization of God’s persistent presence. The book weaves through his personal crises and public controversies. Olasky advocates for a fearless embrace of change, bolstered by faith and a rejection of fear. But his story is not just about adapting. It’s about thriving spiritually amidst the inevitable pivots of life. Jump into the comments for the full story. ⬇️ #theology #catholic #spirituality #memoir

Why do we root for the villain? Tom Ripley is a chilling embodiment of the dark side of the American dream. It's a dream where success justifies any means, moral or otherwise. In Netflix's new adaptation, Ripley's pursuit of luxury mirrors modern society's obsession with wealth and status. Director Steven Zaillian captures this gritty narrative through a unified artistic vision, emphasizing psychological depth and existential dilemmas. The series not only entertains but also serves as a critique of the eroding moral landscape, challenging the viewer to reflect on the cost of severing ambition from morality. #popculture #streaming #morality

Imagine ranking the greatest minds in economics. That's what Tyler Cowen does in his new book. It's appropriately titled, "GOAT: Who Is the Greatest Economist of All Time and Why Does It Matter?” Cowen gives a nod to Milton Friedman as the world's greatest. Two reasons: his undeniable impact and clarity of thought. Cowen argues that the title of "Greatest Economist" involves not only theoretical contributions but also the ability to influence real-world policies and perceptions. Friedman’s combination of intellectual rigor and societal impact makes him as a standout in a field of titans. Jump into the comments for the full story. ⬇️ #politicalscience #economics #quotes