From time to time we are asked to explain the choice of the 5 images displayed on ISI's homepage, the Forum, and our monthly E-Update newsletter. For those of you who have wondered, here is the answer.
The five images in the banner graphic are inspired by Russell Kirk’s The Roots of American Order. In this famous work, Kirk explores the origins of the American political tradition, delving into the sources of our heritage to more deeply understand the institutions and ideas that have inspired and nurtured the soul of the American commonwealth. Beginning with the Hebrew prophets, and continuing through a discussion of the significance of the ancient Greek philosophers and legislators, Roman law and morality, Christian doctrine, English common law and parliamentary government, medieval universities, the Protestant Reformation, the American colonial experience, and the Civil War, Kirk’s dramatic narrative comes into focus as the tale of five cities: Jerusalem, Athens, Rome, London, and Philadelphia. In its essence, Kirk’s work captures the spirit of ISI’s mission to nurture in American college youth an allegiance to America’s founding principles.
