An unlikely friendship between two renowned scholars, Robert P. George and Cornel West, offers a powerful lesson in the art of disagreement. Despite their contrasting political and philosophical views, they have cultivated a deep and enduring friendship, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and understanding. Their journey began with a chance conversation, evolving into a decades-long partnership focused on seeking truth and character formation.
The key to their friendship lies in a shared goal: not to win arguments but to gain deeper understanding. They prioritize open dialogue, embracing each other's fallibility and encouraging critique. This approach has fostered a unique bond, allowing them to navigate differing opinions with grace and empathy.
West and George's friendship extends beyond academia, influencing their interactions with members and leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They admire the character and soulcraft exemplified by figures like Russell M. Nelson and Jeffrey R. Holland, emphasizing the importance of inner joy, service, and a connection to something greater.
Their teachings on Latter-day Saint soulcraft and character formation resonate with students at BYU. West's words, 'remembrance, reverence, and resistance,' encourage students to embrace a memory of persecution, perseverance, and persistence, fostering empathy and a willingness to challenge the status quo. George, meanwhile, stresses the faculty's role in serving as models of truth-seeking and courageous truth-speaking.
The scholars' emphasis on love and understanding as the foundation of their friendship has left a lasting impression on students. They hope to emulate West and George's ability to disagree respectfully while maintaining a deep sense of brotherly love, a lesson that extends beyond the lecture hall and into the hearts of those who hear their message.
