Why a 3-Part Structure to the Statement on Philosophical Liberalism?
Peek behind the curtain of our process (TPL #11)
Welcome to our 11th episode of The Philosophical Liberal (TPL), in which co-founders Chris and Joia share insights about – and invite you to join! – the iterative process of crafting of the statement on Philosophical Liberalism. Tune in to the video below for the full insights. Some key highlights are captured below:
From Vision to Document
What started as a simple mission statement for a free society evolved into an in-depth philosophical framework
A more-extensive and -iterative process than initially anticipated
Entrepreneurial approach to tackling deep philosophical questions
Creating a defined, aspirational vision for freedom that could inspire others
The Human Potential Foundation
Exploring human nature at its best as a starting point for political philosophy
Core values of freedom, flourishing, and greatness emerged organically
Ethical focus on character development emerged as a prerequisite for a free society
Vision designed to unite diverse groups around a shared commitment to freedom
Building on Historical Wisdom
Drawing from the Founders' emphasis on virtue as a foundation of freedom
“Neither the wisest constitution nor the wisest laws will secure the liberty and happiness of a people whose manners are universally corrupt. He therefore is the truest friend to the liberty of his country who tries most to promote its virtue” - Samuel Adams
While the American Founders incorporated aspects of Ancient Roman Stoic and Judeo-Christian values in their ethical conceptions, we at 1776 Forward aimed for something different - using contemporary science and the accumulated wisdom of 250 years of human progress & intellectual development to create a more-comprehensive approach to civic virtues
In so doing, to also fill in the gaps left by earlier thinkers in defining specific societal virtues
The 11 Core Virtues Framework in Article II
A more-systematic outline of virtues essential for a functioning free society emerged from the drafting process
Generated an even more-detailed roadmap to a free society than previous philosophical attempts
Aim was to balance timeless principles with the capacity for growth and adaptation in present and future times
The ethical core of the statement (i.e., our key values & virtues) provides a practical guide for achieving and maintaining political freedom
Notes on Method: An Entrepreneurial Philosophy
Treating philosophical development like a startup venture
Emphasis on iteration, feedback, and continuous refinement
Starting with "minimum viable philosophy" rather than a complete system
Seeking input from others who share a first principles approach to thinking and exploration
Inclusive Yet Principled
The final output grounded our organization with a set of ideas that welcomes diverse perspectives
United around freedom, without imposing answers to all of life’s big questions (as a full philosophical system aims for)
** Weekly Call to Action - Self-Leadership & Community Leadership: Your First Principles Approach to Freedom **
Like Joia & Chris did by beginning with asking fundamental questions about how and why a free society is necessary and valuable - we invite each of you to do the same. What would you consider to be core to the grounding / rationale for freedom after taking a first principles approach yourself and asking why freedom matters (1) to you personally and (2) to your community? Share your insights below or send to us directly!