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Restoration | George Will's Enduring Legacy of Conservative Thought

Italo Calvino

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George Will, a brilliant and influential conservative commentator, left an indelible mark on American political discourse during his prolific career spanning over half a century. Known for his incisive wit, erudite writing style, and steadfast adherence to conservative principles, Will's contributions to journalism and political thought continue to resonate today.

Early Life and Education

George Francis Will was born on May 4, 1941, in Champaign, Illinois. His father, Frederick L. Will, was a professor of philosophy at the University of Illinois, while his mother, Louise, was a librarian. Will's early intellectual development was shaped by his parents' academic pursuits and the stimulating environment of his childhood home.

Restoration

by George F. Will

4.7 out of 5

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After graduating from Champaign Central High School, Will attended Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, where he studied philosophy and political science. He subsequently earned a Master's degree in philosophy from Oxford University's Merton College as a Rhodes Scholar.

Journalistic Career

Will began his journalistic career in 1968 as the national affairs editor for the conservative magazine National Review. His sharp political commentary and incisive wit quickly gained recognition, and he soon became a regular contributor to other prominent publications such as The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal.

In 1974, Will was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary for his incisive analysis of Watergate and other political scandals. This prestigious honor cemented his reputation as one of the most influential and respected political commentators in the United States.

Conservative Thought

Throughout his career, Will consistently espoused conservative principles in his writings and public appearances. He argued for limited government, free markets, and a strong national defense. Will believed that the American system of constitutional democracy was a delicate balance that required constant vigilance and protection from the encroachments of collectivism and statism.

Will's conservative worldview was not simply a dogmatic adherence to a set of ideological tenets. Rather, he saw conservatism as a dynamic philosophy rooted in pragmatism and a deep understanding of human nature. He believed that individuals, not governments, should be the primary agents of social and economic progress.

Restoration

One of Will's most significant contributions to conservative thought was his concept of "restoration." In his book The Restoration (1992),Will argued that the American people had lost their way in the wake of the 1960s counterculture and the excesses of the welfare state. He called for a restoration of traditional values, limited government, and individual responsibility.

Will believed that the key to restoring America's greatness lay in embracing the principles that had made the country exceptional in the first place. He argued for a return to the constitutional principles of federalism, separation of powers, and individual rights.

Legacy

George Will retired from his regular column in 2020 after 52 years of writing and commenting on American politics. His influence on conservative thought and American political discourse cannot be overstated.

Will's incisive wit, erudite writing style, and steadfast adherence to conservative principles earned him a devoted following among readers and respect from political figures across the ideological spectrum. His legacy as a preeminent conservative commentator and a defender of American values will continue to shape political debate for generations to come.

Restoration

by George F. Will

4.7 out of 5