This being the first post of Via Antiqua I deemed it appropriate to begin by explaining the purpose and general thrust of the blog, as well as some relevant background information. The name comes from the Latin proverb “Via antiqua, via est tuta” meaning in English “the old way is the safe way.” I find it particularly fitting in times such as these, where Western culture is increasingly becoming unmoored from her foundations and a schism being created between the current generation and it’s cultural heritage. While the past certainly should not be deified, one must acknowledge that hindsight is considerably more insightful and accurate than conjecture about the future. The failure to learn from history makes us repeat mistakes, often with disastrous consequences. To quote Cicero “To be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain a child.” One needs look no farther than the local supermarket to come to the realization that we are truly living in a culture largely ignorant of it’s heritage or basic tenets.
In the interest of academic honesty I will say a small word about my presuppositions and cultural biases, as they will undoubtedly affect my writing and perception of events. Everyone has certain biases, and despite the political correctness movement so prevalent today, bias is a fact of life and an inescapable one at that. While I will endeavor to do my best to limit my own biases, I lay them bare now in hopes of allowing you the reader to judge the merit of the material presented with them in mind. I am an American citizen, and have spent the majority of my life in the United States. I have moved extensively throughout the US, and would be considered well traveled by most. I spent five years in the United Kingdom as a child, and have many fond memories from there. I am currently pursuing my undergraduate degree in Western Legal Traditions. My political leanings are most closely aligned with the classical school of liberalism, most notably John Locke and Frederic Bastiat. Philosophically I am very much an admirer of Thomas Aquinas, though I differ with him enough not to be considered a Thomist. Economically I would agree with the majority of Milton Friedman on a large scale, and am a proponent of the free market. I agree with most of the aforementioned authors, but as a caveat I would add I do take exception all of them at one point or another. I only attempt to present to you a basic understanding of where on the political and philosophical spectrum I am.
The purpose and general format of this blog is to encapsulate my thoughts on current political and cultural events in an intelligent manner. While significant portions are my opinion, I intend to make intelligent analysis and attempt to reinforce my thoughts with facts and verifiable sources and figures. I intend to post something at least once a week, on Monday. Should my schedule free up, or because extenuating circumstances, I will attempt to post more often. Your thoughts and comments are welcome, except under the following circumstances. I will not tolerate obscene language, or excessive amounts of political correctness. Accusations are perfectly acceptable, provided you have specific facts and do not engage in vitriolic attacks using mindless rhetoric. Links are welcome, provided they are not obscene. I welcome differences of opinion; I only ask that it be done with decorum and a modicum of respect for the other individual. Having said that, I welcome you to Via Antiqua…
