On the Daily Herald Opinion page, we aim to present a wide range of political and social thought. We believe our democracy and our communities are stronger when citizens see their own points of view reflected — and challenged — by articulate, knowledgeable writers of all stripes.
Sometimes, too, routines just need to be shaken up.
In that spirit, we’ve made a couple of recent changes to our lineup of syndicated columnists that are worth your attention.
One is the addition of Walter E. Williams. Bolstered by a host of economics, writing and broadcast credentials, Williams exudes a strident faith in small-government conservatism. He holds doctorates in economics and law, has served on the faculty of major universities including Temple, George Mason and California State and is the author of more than 150 publications. He frequently appears as a commentator for radio and television news programs.
We already have a solid conservative contingent among our columnists, notably with former George W. Bush adviser Michael Gerson — who also has ties to Wheaton College — and Byron York, writer for the conservative Washington Examiner. But in an era when many small-government conservatives complain of being ignored and under-represented, Williams offers a strong, proud voice that such thinkers will appreciate — and their opponents should hear.
A second addition, Fareed Zakaria, brings studied insight into foreign affairs to our commentary at a time when America’s relationships with other governments face dramatic restructuring. With a Harvard PhD. and nearly two decades leading foreign affairs coverage for Newsweek magazine, Zakaria has deep personal insights into the mechanics and the effects of American foreign policy. He’s the author of three prominent books on foreign policy, but is perhaps best-known for his role as host of the CNN public affairs program “Fareed Zakaria GPS.”
Together, Zakaria and Williams add new tones to a chorus of voices on our Opinion page that covers the full scale of political and social thought. Along with Gerson, York, liberals Connie Schultz and Gene Lyons, centrists Kathleen Parker, Lee Hamilton and Georgie Anne Geyer and others, they give the Daily Herald Opinion page a rich blend of engaging ideas. We’ve always held that a good editorial page should inspire you on one day, anger you the next and challenge you on them all. Our country doesn’t grow stronger through people who listen only to the echoes of their own points of view but through people who learn how to deepen their own views while also remaining open to reflection, if not outright persuasion, by the views of others. The newspaper Opinion page ought to be a vehicle for advancing such intellectual growth.
Whatever your place on the political spectrum, we think you’ll find Zakaria and Williams help the Daily Herald fill that role. As you grow more familiar with them, let us know what you think.
Jim Slusher, [email protected], is a deputy managing editor at the Daily Herald. Follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jim.slusher1 and on Twitter at @JimSlusher.