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Arthur C. Brooks: From Reform Conservative to Harvard Scholar

3/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Arthur C. Brooks, a prominent conservative thinker, was celebrated as the "godfather of reform conservatism" but has struggled to adapt to the Trump era under U.S. President Donald Trump.
He promoted a compassionate laissez-faire approach to reform conservatism.
As Trumpism took hold, Brooks retreated from political discourse.
Brooks now holds positions at Harvard.

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Story summary

Arthur C. Brooks, a prominent conservative thinker, was celebrated as the "godfather of reform conservatism" but has struggled to adapt to the Trump era under U.S. President Donald Trump.
He promoted a compassionate laissez-faire approach to reform conservatism.
As Trumpism took hold, Brooks retreated from political discourse.
Brooks now holds positions at Harvard.