Robert Brockway: Created page with "AI overview: Several political science programs, particularly in the United States, have historically been associated with or heavily influenced by the teachings of Leo Strauss (1899–1973). These programs are often characterized by a focus on "classical political philosophy," a rigorous, close reading of "Great Books" (often in original languages), and a critique of modern liberal democracy, positivism, and historicism. Here are the primary institutions and departmen..."

2026-02-03T15:30:25Z

Created page with "AI overview: Several political science programs, particularly in the United States, have historically been associated with or heavily influenced by the teachings of Leo Strauss (1899–1973). These programs are often characterized by a focus on "classical political philosophy," a rigorous, close reading of "Great Books" (often in original languages), and a critique of modern liberal democracy, positivism, and historicism. Here are the primary institutions and departmen..."

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Several political science programs, particularly in the United States, have historically been associated with or heavily influenced by the teachings of Leo Strauss (1899–1973). These programs are often characterized by a focus on "classical political philosophy," a rigorous, close reading of "Great Books" (often in original languages), and a critique of modern liberal democracy, positivism, and historicism.
Here are the primary institutions and departments known for their Straussian influence:
Primary Institutions
University of Chicago (Department of Political Science): This is the center of the Straussian world, where Leo Strauss taught from 1949 to 1968. His legacy was continued by students and colleagues like Joseph Cropsey and Ralph Lerner.
Claremont Graduate University / Claremont McKenna College: Closely associated with Harry V. Jaffa, a direct student of Strauss. The Claremont Institute and its associated academic programs are major hubs for West Coast Straussian thought, focusing on the American founding and natural right.
Boston College (Department of Political Science): Known for a strong political theory program with significant Straussian influence, often focusing on the history of political thought.
University of Toronto: Historically, the Department of Political Science at Toronto had a strong Straussian contingent, particularly in political theory.
Characteristics of Straussian Programs
The "Art of Reading": Emphasis is placed on the idea that philosophers conceal their true teachings between the lines of their texts to avoid persecution or to communicate only with the most attentive readers.
"Ancients vs. Moderns": A preference for classical (Plato, Aristotle) and medieval political philosophy over modern thought, which is seen as having led to a decline in moral standards and political stability.
Critique of Positivism: Rejection of the fact/value distinction in modern social science, arguing instead for a return to normative political philosophy.
Key Figures and Associations
East Coast vs. West Coast: A distinction is often made between the "East Coast" Straussians (associated more with Allan Bloom and the University of Chicago), who focus on the esoteric, philosophical, and anti-modern aspects, and the "West Coast" Straussians (associated with Harry Jaffa and Claremont), who are more focused on the American Founding, natural right, and the moral righteousness of liberal democracy.
Prominent Associated Figures: Besides Strauss, key figures who helped build these programs include Joseph Cropsey, Ralph Lerner, Allan Bloom, Harry V. Jaffa, and Harvey Mansfield (Harvard).

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