(from Modern Age, Summer 2006)

Leo Strauss (1899-1973) was one of the most influential political philosophers of the 20th century. In this essay, Richard Sherlock explores the significance of Strauss's methodology, focusing on how he understood the communication of ideas in classical and modern thought about political order. Strauss's deep, insightful readings and profound respect for the writers of seminal works manifested a powerful apologetic for the idea of "classic natural right," even as his intellectual esotericism masked a critical gap in his political philosophy. Read by Ken Myers. 36 minutes