America was never just an idea — or just a heritage

The Declaration of Independence’s 250th birthday offers responsible American citizens a golden opportunity to reflect on what is distinctive about our nation and way of life. The anniversary has also led to a renewed debate on the Right.

Is America merely an idea, or is it the project and inheritance of a particular people? Do justice and wisdom require us to orient ourselves primarily by our creed, or does prudence dictate that we define ourselves by our heritage and culture instead? The American Founders would have rejected this false choice as shallow and reductive.