Easy Chair No. 137, January 2, 1987

CR101 Radio - Podcast Network · Mar 28, 2026 · 58m

R.J. Rushdoony critiques the lionization of Thoreau, highlighting that his retreat to Walden Pond was less a philosophical act than a gesture of personal alienation from Concord. While often portrayed as a nature idealist, Thoreau frequently returned to town for meals and socializing, demonstrating a divergence between myth and reality.

Rushdoony also critiques modern conservatism through Russell Kirk, arguing that Kirk’s emphasis on tradition, custom, and continuity neglects faith and fundamental justice. Such conservatism, though seemingly rooted in stability, is impotent in addressing…