Proclamation of Western Civilization

Introduction

This declaration of Western Civilization is an attempt to publicly advocate for the continued relevance of our civilization's foundations as a guide for humanity's future. The declaration is supported by Václav Klaus, Javier Milei, and Jordan Peterson. We are also grateful to Guido Hülsmann and Thorsten Polleit for their assistance in organizing this declaration, and Olivier Kessler for facilitating its publication through the Liberal Institute.

Concerns and Convictions

We are deeply worried about the trajectory of Western Civilization. Despite the existence of powerful ideological-political forces that threaten to dismantle this civilization from within, we firmly believe that many of its accomplishments still possess the potential to guide humanity towards a future that is just, peaceful, and prosperous.

The Foundations of Western Civilization

The philosophies of Greek and Roman antiquity, along with the Jewish-Christian belief in man being created in the image of God and its secularization during the Enlightenment, have established the principle of universal reason. This principle asserts that all humans are rational beings, free to think and act, and thus accountable for their actions. Universal reason unites humanity and recognizes each individual as a unique person with dignity and the inherent right to self-determine their life. Conversely, identities based on group affiliations (racial, gender, religious, or otherwise) divide humanity and suppress individual freedom and dignity.

Achievements of Western Civilization

Through the acknowledgment of individual freedom rights – the rights to life, liberty, and property – Western civilization has achieved significant milestones that have benefited all of humanity. These include the abolition of slavery, the eradication of racism and tribalism, the advancement of science, and the establishment of the rule of law that grants equal rights to all. Western civilization has thrived because these individual freedoms have allowed for the spontaneous formation of communities and societies based on voluntary interactions, rather than coercion by a central authority.

Individual Liberties and Progress

Individual liberties under the rule of law have paved the way for modern science and private entrepreneurship. Thanks to these liberties, savings and hard work have not remained unproductive or concentrated on the needs of political authorities, as is typical in coercive social settings. Instead, through the creation of free markets and the use of capital (capitalism), they have facilitated unprecedented improvements in prosperity for all population segments. They have also provided efficient protection against various life risks for all, including remarkable improvements in hygiene standards and the promotion of the careful, sustainable use of natural resources.

The Socio-Economic Order

The socio-economic order that naturally arises from individual liberties under the rule of law is crucial for material progress and environmental protection. In contrast, central planning and the abolition of private property rights lead to poor living standards for all but a small elite, while simultaneously causing environmental destruction.

Conclusion

Given these facts, we are convinced that continuing on the path of scientific, technological, economic, and cultural progress within the framework of Western civilization’s individual freedoms, private property, and the rule of law is the only way to preserve past achievements. It is also the best approach to addressing the challenges of our times and building a just, peaceful, and prosperous future for all of humanity.

Patronage Committee

Václav Klaus, Former President of the Czech Republic Javier Milei, President of Argentina Jordan Peterson, Professor of Psychology

Enquiries

Philip Bagus, Professor of Economics, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain, philipp.bagus@urjc.es Michael Esfeld, Professor of Philosophy, University of Lausanne, Switzerland, michael.esfeld@unil.ch

Invited Signatories

The declaration is supported by 106 initial signatories, including professors, economists, publicists, and entrepreneurs from various countries.

Bottom Line

The Declaration of Western Civilization is a powerful statement advocating for the continued relevance and importance of the principles and achievements of Western civilization. It recognizes the critical role of individual freedoms, private property, and the rule of law in fostering progress and prosperity. It also warns against the dangers of central planning and the abolition of private property rights. What are your thoughts on this declaration? Do you agree with its assertions? Feel free to share this article with your friends and engage in a discussion. Sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6 pm, for more insightful content.