Essays by twenty-five scholars surveying the broad landscape of the Declaration of Independence
I am pleased to present this noteworthy volume published by the Civitas Institute:
Contributors have aimed to scrutinize the Declaration in full, a document whose excellence underpins the core of American political life. We also acknowledge that its legacy and principles are being debated in this, the two-hundred-and-fiftieth anniversary year. It is important for readers to understand that the scholars featured in this collection remain confident in the Declaration’s principles and their relevance to American citizens and public life. With essays addressing the Declaration’s teachings on natural rights, liberty, anthropology, natural theology, legal standing, revolutionary ideals, civic virtue, executive authority, biblical faith, foreign policy, and notably its influence on our culture and memory, we hope that you will deepen your understanding of the Declaration and strengthen your devotion to this remarkable nation we uphold and cherish.
To this end, the Civitas Institute at the University of Texas at Austin offers this volume to readers, presenting 25 essays that explore every facet of the Declaration of Independence. A majority of the contributors teach within the newly established centers and schools of civic thought and education that now populate major universities across the country, enriching public instruction for students, broadening the circulation of diverse ideas on campuses, and thereby enhancing higher education in America. This volume will contribute to these efforts. The Civitas Institute extends its gratitude to all who have deftly shaped this collection of essays.
