Religions that do not win converts eventually die.. This holds true even more for political philosophies. Conservatism has been strengthened by the conversions of “neo-conservatives” - former liberals, even former leftist radicals, who have been mugged by the 1960's, by the anti-Americanism of the left, and, especially, an increasingly dangerous world outside our borders.

Neo-cons have strengthened conservatism not just by their numbers but also by their energy and ideas. They have charted a course in foreign policy that will make us safer and the world a better place, and on the domestic front have made peace with an electorate that wants an active but rational government. Finally, to the leftist radicals they left behind, they are the sum of all that is evil. So they've got that going for them.

on the other hand, to many more traditional conservatives, neo-conservatives are simply not right. Not correct and not conservative. On foreign policy, they are warmed-over Wilsonians, and on domestic policy they are warmed-over Roosevelts (and not the good one on Mount Rushmore).

The chairman, who may have used the term “neo-con” once or twice, has called for a debate to settle the question:

Resolved: The Neo-Cons are Right .

The Debate will be held on Wednesday, September 14, 2005 at room 20 of the Hubert H. Humphrey Center , 301 19th Ave. S, Minneapolis on the West Bank of the University of Minnesota (The best parking is in the 19th Ave. Ramp). The Chancellor will preside over drinks beginning at seven o'clock p.m. The debate will begin at half past seven. While there is no dress code for attendance, gentlemen who wish to speak must wear a tie; ladies should adhere to a similar sartorial standard. For those gentlemen who arrive tieless yet wish to speak, fret not: the Purveyor of Ties will keep on hand at least one of his quite remarkable ties for just such an eventuality. Questions about debate caucus procedures or about the John Adams Society itself may be directed to the Chairman at (952) 937-7630 or the Secretary at (612) 204-5615.

If you would like to receive email announcements of upcoming debates, email the John Adams Society with your name, email address, and a simple statement requesting future "Whip Sheets" via email.