A Word On Conservative Sources

As an editorialist, the question frequently arises as to what sources are read from which these opinions are derived. Often, interest is expressed as to where one can read about certain issues in an effort to learn more regarding conservative views, edify oneself, and broaden one’s horizons. More often, the respective source is requested so that an investigation can be made for purposes of verification, critical appraisal, or rebuke.

What’s So Great About America?, by Dinesh D’Souza, is one of the best books to come to market in years. The author is a native born Indian (not American Indian) who became a U.S. citizen in 1991. As a member of a minority group, he has a unique outlook on American culture and values, and his comparison of America to other countries is intriguing. He also delves into a vast range of other areas including world history, colonization, education, multiculturalism, philosophy, and economics- to name just a few. It would be a challenge for anyone to read this book, and refute any of the premises made and conclusions formed. D’Souza has also written several other outstanding books such as Illiberal Education and The End of Racism. Other excellent books that cover this country’s inception, describes its values, and place the mentality of the forefathers in correct context are Vindicating the Founders by Thomas G. West, Let Freedom Ring by Sean Hannity, and especially Founding Brothers by Joseph J. Ellis.

Another excellent minority columnist is Michelle Malkin who, in her first book, Invasion, discusses the mass illegal immigration presently underway against America that jeopardizes our national security and very survival. Like D’Souza, Malkin’s immigrant origins provide her a unique perspective, and her reasoned analysis and logical examination of our nation’s immigration policy reveals that liberal laws governing immigration have actually aided and abetted terrorists groups seeking to destroy our way of life. Her conclusions are practically impervious to the emotional tirades of her ideological opponents, and, just like D’Souza, her references are impeccable. More outstanding books by minority writers include: Losing the Race and Authentically Black by John McWhorter who discusses the “self-sabotage in black America”, Black Lies, White Lies by Tony Brown, An Unlikely Conservative by Linda Chavez, Civil Rights: Rhetoric or Reality, by Thomas Sowell, and Showdown: Confronting Bias, Lies and the Special Interests That Divide America, by Larry Elder who analyzes the biases dominating campus teaching.

There was a time when it was unpardonable for a non-minority person to raise such discussions in the media. Thankfully, our nation has begun to turn the corner on this matter, and an authentic national dialogue on issues vital to the future of our nation is once again becoming possible. That is, of course, with the exception of many elite college campuses, where liberal thinking stifles the very freedom of speech once so strongly defended by our forefathers. It is ironic that so many institutions of higher learning are no longer open to freethinking or debate. Fortunately for us, StLCOP engages in no such paradox.

There are also a plethora of great science and philosophy books that are highly enlightening as well. The Demon Haunted World by Carl Sagan is an amazing book that examines the relationship between science and religion. It’s stunning insightfulness makes it one of the most intellectual and deeply philosophical books of modern times. Even while writing fiction, such as Contact, Dr. Sagan touches upon this subject with an awe-inspiring adeptness. Isaac Asimov is another stunningly brilliant writer of science and philosophy. A fascinating book that pertains to medicine is PC, M.D. by Sally Satel, M.D. who clearly and caustically illustrates how political correctness is affecting the medical establishment in this country.
If you are not a book reader, and prefer articles, then try John Leo, who is arguably the best columnist in America today. His subtle use of the Socratic method of reasoning would impress Socrates himself. All of the book authors previously mentioned write weekly articles as well. If you prefer movies, then examine The Dead Poets Society, The Emperor’s Club, Braveheart, Black Hawk Down, We Were Soldiers, and Glory. These are films that grapple with issues of great consequence and touch upon the vital themes relevant to our time. Seldom do films of this caliber find their way out of Hollywood.

I would like to close with a few words regarding the recent Columbia disaster. I know that I speak for the general collective when I say that our hearts go out to the families of those brave men and women who were lost on 2/1/03. They have our deepest regret and sorrow. Michael Anderson, David Brown, Kalpana Chawla, Laurel Clark, Rick Husband, William McCool, and Ilan Ramon represent the true meaning of heroism and spirit of this nation. Their loss pierces us all, and they will be missed dearly. Moreover, we must remember that those who follow in their footsteps will be…no less heroic.