Western Civilization: A Resilient Tradition

Those who have been keeping up with current events can probably see that Western civilization appears to be, well, at a tipping point. The foundational values that have shaped it are often criticized as being outdated or even imperialist.

Instead of falling into despair, though, maybe it’s time for people in the West to remember resilience—a trait that has defined Western culture throughout history.

Historian Allen Guelzo, who co-authored the Golden Thread series, shared insights with Blaze TV host Steve Deace, pointing out that “unlike other civilizations that rise, reach a peak, and then decline swiftly, the Western tradition… demonstrates incredible resilience. It’s like a cycle of rising, failing, and against all odds, finding a way to bounce back.”

According to Guelzo, this rebound effect has been observed multiple times throughout history.

“At the end of the Roman Empire, for instance, it seemed like we might fade into what’s often referred to as the Dark Ages,” he reminisces. “Then, of course, there was the period after the Black Death in the 1300s, which decimated about two-thirds of Europe. Following the Thirty Years’ War, the chaos and bloodshed made it feel like law and inquiry were on the verge of vanishing entirely.”

In recent history, Western nations have faced two world wars and the largest genocide in the West. Yet, Guelzo notes, “there’s always been something that has brought the Western tradition back.”

Today, we find ourselves at yet another critical “civilizational moment” where it feels like destruction is looming.

Guelzo hopes for a future that reflects the persistence of our history, but he emphasizes the importance of fostering a passion for history, especially among younger generations.

“History provides insight into who we’ve been. It informs us about our past, even today,” he asserts. “Cicero once said that those who don’t know their history are doomed to live forever as children. I think that’s spot on.”

The Golden Thread series, co-authored with former Harvard history professor James Hankins, is aimed at igniting interest in Western history.

“It’s far more than just a lengthy roster of names, dates, and locations—things that scare most people away from history,” Guelzo chuckles. “These books are filled with concepts, philosophies, art, magnificent paintings, and music.”

“It’s alive with colors, insights, and even acknowledges the missteps of the Western tradition—yes, people have certainly suffered. Yet, the essence of this tradition has been one of restoration and uplift, fostering human flourishing,” he adds.

Guelzo believes that understanding this knowledge could ultimately save Western civilization from the brink of collapse.

“It’s possible to rescue it because it has been saved before,” he asserts.

For more on this intriguing conversation, check out the episode linked above.