The 3 Pillars Of The American Idea

The American founding is built on two core ideas: unalienable rights and self-evident truths. Adding free market economics makes three pillars of the American Idea, which were influenced by Scottish Enlightenment thinkers Francis Hutcheson, Adam Smith, and Thomas Reid. Hutcheson's analysis of rights showed that some are unalienable, like property, which cannot be transferred to another's ownership. This challenged John Locke's view that rights are based on property, and instead, the founders believed that rights to life and liberty are inherent and essential. Adam Smith, mentored by Hutcheson, built on this idea in "The Wealth of Nations," which demonstrated the division of labor is the source of wealth, relying on the right to exchange property. Thomas Reid's "Common Sense" provided a foundation for morality and knowledge, arguing that human nature has an endowment that makes rational and moral judgments possible. The American founders, including Jefferson, relied on Reid's thinking when writing the Declaration of Independence. The Progressive movement has sought to undo the America of the founders, and understanding the American Idea is crucial to restoring America. The author wrote two books to help achieve this goal.