As history shows, one never vanquishes the Jacobin instinct; one only suppresses or resists it for a while. That’s why NR is essential.
In 1955, William F. Buckley Jr. wrote that, “unlike Vienna, it seems altogether possible that did National Review not exist, no one would have invented it.” He was right. And from this we might infer another truth: that if National Review were to disappear, it would be unlikely that it would ever be replaced. They are peculiar things, institutions. One can be in full possession of the history, the lore, and the blueprints, but, if the original vessel is broken, it will not be easily resurrected. Seventy years in, we are what we are. If you would like us to stay that way, we hope you will contribute to our spring webathon.