History Is Running Backwards

In 'Return of the Strong Gods,' R.R. Reno argues that the post-war consensus, which aimed to create an 'open society' free from the dogmas that led to World War II, is breaking down. He contends that the strong gods—powerful loyalties to nation, clan, and religion—are returning as people seek meaning and community. Reno traces the historical roots of this shift, critiquing the relativism and multiculturalism that have eroded traditional values. He advocates for a return to classic human values such as patriotism, family, and historic Christianity, warning that the absence of these strong gods could invite darker alternatives.

Written during World War II and published in 1945, 'The Open Society and Its Enemies' is a seminal work in political philosophy. Karl Popper critiques the theories of teleological historicism espoused by Plato, Hegel, and Marx, arguing that these theories undermine individual freedom and pave the way for authoritarian regimes. The book defends the open society and liberal democracy, emphasizing the importance of critical rationalism, individual freedom, and the ethos of scientific inquiry in politics. It also discusses the challenges facing open societies, including totalitarianism, dogmatism, and relativism, and advocates for a piecemeal approach to social reform.