George Will
Full Name and Common Aliases
George Frederick Will, commonly known as George Will, is a prominent American political commentator and author. His insightful analysis and articulate writing have made him a respected voice in American journalism.
Birth and Death Dates
George Will was born on May 4, 1941. As of the latest information available, he is still alive and continues to contribute to public discourse.
Nationality and Profession(s)
George Will is an American by nationality. He is a renowned political commentator, journalist, and author. Over the years, he has established himself as a leading conservative voice in American media.
Early Life and Background
George Will was born in Champaign, Illinois, to Frederick L. Will and Louise Hendrickson Will. His father was a professor of philosophy, which likely influenced George's intellectual pursuits. He attended the University Laboratory High School in Urbana, Illinois, where he developed an early interest in politics and writing. Will went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. His academic journey continued at Oxford University, where he studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. He later received a Ph.D. in Political Science from Princeton University. This robust educational background laid the foundation for his future career in political commentary.
Major Accomplishments
George Will's career is marked by numerous accomplishments. He began his professional journey as a staff member in the United States Senate, which provided him with firsthand experience in American politics. However, it was his transition to journalism that truly defined his career. In 1974, he joined the National Review as an editor, and shortly thereafter, he began writing a biweekly column for The Washington Post. His column quickly gained popularity for its incisive analysis and eloquent prose, earning him the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 1977. This accolade solidified his reputation as one of the leading conservative commentators in the country.
Notable Works or Actions
George Will is the author of several influential books that reflect his deep understanding of American politics and culture. His first book, "Statecraft as Soulcraft: What Government Does", published in 1983, explores the moral responsibilities of government. Another significant work, "Men at Work: The Craft of Baseball", published in 1990, showcases his passion for baseball, offering a detailed analysis of the sport. Will's writing extends beyond books; his columns have been syndicated in hundreds of newspapers, reaching a vast audience. His participation as a panelist on the television program "This Week" further expanded his influence, allowing him to engage with viewers on pressing political issues.
Impact and Legacy
George Will's impact on American political discourse is profound. His articulate defense of conservative principles and his ability to critique both sides of the political spectrum have earned him respect across ideological lines. Will's writing is characterized by its clarity, wit, and depth, making complex political issues accessible to a broad audience. His influence extends beyond journalism; he has shaped public opinion and contributed to the national conversation on governance, policy, and culture. As a result, he has become a mentor and role model for aspiring journalists and commentators.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
George Will is widely quoted and remembered for his ability to distill complex political ideas into clear, compelling arguments. His columns and books are rich with insights that resonate with readers, offering perspectives that challenge conventional thinking. Will's eloquence and intellectual rigor have made his quotes a staple in discussions about American politics and culture. His commentary often provides a historical context, drawing on his extensive knowledge to illuminate contemporary issues. This ability to connect the past with the present makes his work timeless and relevant, ensuring that his voice remains influential in shaping public discourse.
In summary, George Will's contributions to journalism and political commentary have left an indelible mark on American society. His legacy as a thoughtful and articulate commentator continues to inspire and inform, making him a significant figure in the landscape of American media.
Quotes by George Will
George Will's insights on:
Some parents say it is toy guns that make boys warlike. But give a boy a rubber duck and he will seize its neck like the butt of a pistol and shout Bang.
General Douglas MacArthur said that every military defeat can be explained by to words: too late. 'Too late in anticipating danger; too late in preparing for it; too late in taking action.'
Mitt Romney's losing at this point in a big way. If something's going to come out, get it out in a hurry. I do not know why - given that Mr. Romney knew the day that [Sen. John] McCain lost in 2008 that he was going to run for president again - that he didn't get all of this out and tidy up some of his offshore accounts and all the rest.
Concerning [postmodern] ideas, let us not mince words. The ideas are profoundly dangerous. They subvert our civilization by denying that truth is found by conscientious attempts accurately to portray a reality that exists independently of our perception or attitudes or other attributes such as race, ethnicity, sex or class.
Multiculturalism is a campaign to lower America's moral status by defining the American experience is terms of myriad repressionsand their victims. By rewriting history, and by using name calling ("Racist! Sexist! Homophobe!") to inhibit debate, multiculturalists cultivate grievances, self pity and claims to entitlements arising from victimization.
Baseball's rich in wonderful statistics, but it's hard to find one more beautiful than Stan Musial's hitting record. He didn't care where he was, he just hit.
The First Amendment is not a blanket freedom-of-information act. The constitutional newsgathering freedom means the media can go where the public can, but enjoys no superior right of access.