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This page is intended to provide information about the CU Boulder Bruce D. Benson Center for the Study of Western Civilization (the "Benson Center.") While we encourage you to share comments and interact with us, we will review all content and comments and remove any that contain threats, obscenity, duplicate posts, illegal suggestions, advertisements/SPAM/solicitation, or do not relate t
The panel examines how the Communist Party USA promoted folk music as authentic working-class culture.
The panel examines how the Communist Party USA promoted folk music as authentic working-class culture.
Robert George illuminates how mountain storytelling during the 19th century was celebrated as the anchor of American tradition.
06/01/2026
What does it mean to live thoughtfully?
For centuries, philosophers have argued that a good life begins with reflection, curiosity, and a commitment to learning. This month, we turn to Aristotle and the enduring pursuit of wisdom.
06/01/2026
Great ideas begin with great conversations.
This week, the Benson Center welcomed faculty from across the country to CU Boulder for our annual PPE Faculty Conference. Over two days of paper presentations, discussion, and collaboration, scholars explored new research and exchanged perspectives on some of today’s most important questions.
Thank you to all who presented, participated, and contributed to such a stimulating event.
We were especially pleased to host colleagues from , ,
Robert George uncovers how electrification and amplification during the postwar era transformed folk music as the birth of commercial country.
Robert George uncovers how electrification and amplification during the postwar era transformed folk music as the birth of commercial country.
Robert George explores how the 1927 Bristol Sessions during the recording era were remembered as the big bang of country music.
Robert George explores how the 1927 Bristol Sessions during the recording era were remembered as the big bang of country music.
Robert George traces how New England folk music during the colonial era was shaped as America's northern sound.