The Dispatch

Who invented the individual?

January 12, 2022 George Weigel 9

A common misconception holds that early “modernity” invented the “individual”: the idea that everyone is a someone with a unique identity independent of family, tribe, racial group, or nation. And from that idea of individuality, […]

The Dispatch

No optimism, much hope

January 5, 2022 George Weigel 17

While history is always full of surprises, including happy ones, I must confess that I’m not full of Pentecostal joy as I consider the next 12 months. World politics are likely to be grim. The […]

Essay

The sacred earthiness of Christmas

December 22, 2021 George Weigel 16

ROME. A massive, 16-volume Lives of the Saints, first published between 1872 and 1877, informs me that, here in the Eternal City, the feast of Christmas first became a celebration distinct from the ancient feast […]

The Dispatch

Books for Christmas 2021

December 1, 2021 George Weigel 1

Some suggestions for Christmas giving, in the form of books that amuse, inspire, educate or all-of-the-above: Prison Journal, Volume 3 – The High Court Frees an Innocent Man, by Cardinal George Pell (Ignatius Press). The […]