Such principles are universal in application, though not in origin: they emerged from the unique confluence of ancient (Classical and Judaeo-Christian), medieval and modern thought that we call Western civilisation. We take for granted the values and achievements of this civilisation, but it is dangerous to assume either that these values are indeed universally shared, or that our achievements cannot be turned against us. We have seen not only our technology but our laws and liberties, too, exploited by the enemies of the open society. As it dawns on us that the West is vulnerable, its adversaries gloat, while its champions often feel despondent.
Standpoint, however, intends to be a beacon of hope. Western civilisation continues to disseminate its — overwhelmingly benign — influence, while absorbing those of other cultures. In the pages of Standpoint readers will find reflected the best, not only of the West, but also of the rest. There are so many achievements, past and present, that we should celebrate but rarely do. We hope readers will enjoy Standpoint online at www.standpointmag.co.uk as well as in print, and that you will write to the editor to give us a lively letters page for our next issue. Above all, we intend this magazine to cheer our readers up — to entertain as well as to inform. Among the greatest blessings of freedom is a sense of humour.


















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