As its main focus, this study group will explore the recent past and ponder the future of conservatism. In addition, this study group will discuss the nature of compromise in our two-party system. While Barry Goldwater was best known for his declaration that “Extremism in pursuit of liberty is no vice…and moderation in pursuit of justice is no virtue,” he also declared “Politics is nothing more than public business, sometimes you make the best of a mixed bargain.” Is there room for bipartisanship in a hyper-partisan era?

Week 3: The 2016 Election: The Surrender of Modern Conservatism

The election of Donald Trump and the surrender of modern conservatism. The abandonment of limited government, free trade and American leadership abroad.

Location: Littauer Building (L-150), Harvard Kennedy School