Nicola Benedetti introduced an extraordinary set of people to discuss the significance of the arts in a world riven by such division and turmoil, with an especial emphasis on the American perspective in this 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
She did this in combination with Sarah Lewis, a Harvard professor and award-winning author, who conducted some of the interviews.
First up was Ken Burns who shared a few extracts of his latest opus on the American Revolution before discussing the world-changing American Declaration of Independence, in particular its 2nd sentence which declared that people would no longer be subjects but citizens.
Next was Professor Adam Dixon, leader of the think-tank Panmure House, in discussion with former Chancellor and Prime Minister Gordon Brown about the influence of Adam Smith, especially his thoughts expressed in The Theory of Moral Sentiments as well as the better-known The Wealth of Nations.
After this Sarah spoke with Bryan Stevenson, public interest lawyer and founder of the Legacy Museum, based in Montgomery, Alabama, a touring part of which is on display at the Playfair Library during the Festival. He explained his motivations and work pursuing equal justice for all.
Finally award-winning journalist Amy Goodman explained her pursuit of truth by uncovering the hidden stories behind or hidden from the headlines. She is the subject of the newly-released documentary, Steal This Story, Please!
Unfortunately, the event was running behind time which prompted me to leave before the final panel discussion took place to field questions from the audience since I had a prior commitment. However the entire event was engrossing, invigorating, and monumentally thought-provoking. More please.
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