Many think the key to success for conservative philanthropy is its willingness to give imaginatively and consistently, and according to a larger, coherent vision of public policy. But what is the conservative vision for American today? And how can philanthropy best promote it?
On February 16, 2005, Hudson Institute’s Bradley Center for Philanthropy and Civic Renewal brought together twenty one prominent conservative thinkers, writers, and philanthropists to discuss these essential questions. The day’s keynote address was given by White House Director of Strategic Initiatives Peter Wehner. Nearly 150 invited guests attended the event.
Amy Kass served as moderator of the discussion, and began by pointing out the multiplicity of views evident in the papers prepared for the discussion. Kass was also struck by the radical nature of some of the proposals: “Roll back the Progressive era.” “Topple the educational blob.” “Seize control of the next generation of wealth.” She wondered—and posed to the panelists the question Jim Piereson asked in his essay: “What really are you and your institutions working to conserve?”“ This was the topic of the first panel. The second panel, with much the same group around the table, addressed the question of how philanthropy can enact a conservative vision. Finally, a keynote address was given by Peter Wehner, director of the White House Office of Strategic Initiatives, on “President Bush’s Governing Philosophy.”
The Bradley Symposium is an annual discussion convened by Hudson Institute’s Bradley Center. Information and documents from all Bradley Symposia can be accessed via the Bradley Center’s description page. To request further information on these events or the Bradley Center, please contact Hudson Institute at (202) 974-2424 or e-mail Krista.
To receive a hard copy of the book by mail, contact Krista Shaffer.