Justice Thomas Discusses Progressivism and the Declaration of Independence

During a lecture at the University of Texas at Austin Law School, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas expressed concerns about the growing disconnect between progressivism and the foundational principles of the Declaration of Independence. He suggested that, ultimately, the progressive movement struggles to coexist with ideals like natural rights and limited government.

At 77, Thomas delivered his talk to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration. Appointed by President George H.W. Bush in 1991, he holds the record for the longest-serving current Supreme Court justice.

In his remarks, Thomas traced the roots of progressivism in America back to the early 20th century, identifying President Woodrow Wilson as a key figure in its rise.

He argued that since Wilson’s administration, progressives have significantly influenced American governance, often opposing the Declaration. “It has coexisted uneasily with the principles of the Declaration because it violates them,” he noted. “It is impossible for the two to coexist forever.”

Thomas elaborated that Wilson and his contemporaries believed the nation should abandon its founding principles to adopt a more advanced state power model. He indicated that progressivism aims to supplant the core tenets of the Declaration and, by extension, our government structure. “Our rights and dignity are thought to come from the government, not from God,” he stated.

Reflecting on the words of Calvin Coolidge, Thomas asserted that the equality of all men and the idea that government derives its power from the consent of the governed should be seen as final truths.

He also critiqued Wilson’s distrust of popular governance, which he claimed pointed to an attraction towards a European-style centralized authority. Wilson’s view of the American public, whom he deemed “selfish, ignorant, cowardly, stubborn, and stupid,” further highlighted this inclination, as he admired Germany for its compliant populace.

Thomas warned that these beliefs resulted in grave consequences throughout the 20th century. He voiced skepticism about the period of progressivism, declaring, “The century of progressivism didn’t work,” and emphasized that the European model Wilson idealized led to catastrophic regimes under Stalin, Hitler, Mussolini, and Mao, all of which opposed natural rights.

Furthermore, he linked progressivism to controversial Supreme Court cases like Plessy vs. Ferguson and Buck vs. Bell, stating that Wilson’s notions about replacing natural rights with historical progress served to legitimize racism. He noted that these ideas contributed to eugenics policies and ultimately led to the resegregation of federal employees as well as a sterilization program upheld by the courts.

In closing, Thomas urged his audience to find the courage demonstrated by the signers of the Declaration to address contemporary challenges. He mentioned practical instances requiring courage, such as speaking up in classrooms, confronting anti-Semitism, and running for local offices.

“If we don’t stand up and take ownership of this country and take responsibility, I think we’re going to slowly let other people control how we think,” he cautioned.

He concluded by calling on Americans to celebrate the Declaration by defending its ideals and recommitting to them in their daily lives.