Conservative columnist David Brooks describes the new administration’s style as “pagan,” celebrating power, conquest, and ego rather than Christian values like benevolence and empathy. In this seminar, we explore Brooks’ distinction through a sociological lens, comparing cultures that value honor with those that emphasize human dignity. Honor is earned through generosity, social conformity, or victory, and its loss leads to social “death” with harsh consequences. In contrast, dignity and human rights are inherent, recognized simply because people are human, as in the Geneva Conventions. We’ll examine how honor defined the Greco-Roman world, while dignity shapes the modern world, offering fresh insights into current politics through these ethical foundations. 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.