Russell Kirk's Concise Guide to Conservatism

By: Russell Kirk, Wilfred M. McClay - introduction

Narrated by: Bob Souer

Length: 2 hrs and 52 mins

Publisher's summary

The modern conservative intellectual movement began in 1953 with Russell Kirk’s groundbreaking book The Conservative Mind. Four years later, he published a pithy, wry, philosophical summary of what conservatism really means. Originally titled The Intelligent Woman's Guide to Conservatism, this little book was essentially a popular version of The Conservative Mind.

Now, a century after its author’s birth, this neglected gem has been recovered. It remains what Kirk intended it to be: an accessible introduction to conservative ideas, especially for the young. With a new title and an introduction by the eminent intellectual historian Wilfred M. McClay, Russell Kirk’s Concise Guide to Conservatism arrives with uncanny timing. The movement that Kirk defined in 1953 is today so contested and fragmented that no one seems able to say with confidence what conservatism means.

This book, as fresh and prophetic as the day it was published 60 years ago, is a reminder that no one can match Russell Kirk in engaging people’s minds and imaginations - an indispensable task in reviving our civilization.

©1957, 2019 Russell Kirk Legacy, LLC; Introduction copyright 2019 by Wilfred M. McClay (P)2019 Tantor

Great for an awakening conservative

To understand conservatism and not just agree with the news channels you like. 👍🏾

Good distillation of the original

For perhaps high school or college students, or people short on time, this is a solid abridgement of the much longer original.

Great Articulation of True Conservatism

Well laid out and to the point. A true classic. If only we would practice it.

Prophetic

If only we had taught our children these principles. For generations these ideas were neglected, even shunned, especially in schools and universities, and so we are closer to slavery and tyranny than ever. Let’s hope for a remnant who will rise and take up the “Burke to Kirk” methods of ensuring human dignity and liberty.