Welcome to the Reconstructionist!
My name is Barrett Holmes Pitner, I’m a philosopher, journalist, writer, educator, and the creator of The Reconstructionist.
The Reconstructionist applies my philosophy of Reconstructionism to help us better understand the United States and give us a framework for reconstructing our society and world into a better, more equitable, and friendlier place.
The era of Reconstruction from 1865 to 1877, after the Union defeated the Confederacy in the American Civil War, serves as a critical component for understanding Reconstructionism in the United States because, during these twelve years, the United States attempted to reconstruct this nation into a more united, free, and equitable society. I perceive Reconstruction as more than just an era of radical political and policy changes, but also as an era defined by profound philosophical and cultural changes.
Recognizing the humanity of Black Americans and subsequently working to reshape America amounts to a philosophical and cultural shift that preceded political and policy changes. However, Reconstruction only lasted for twelve years, so much of the work of Reconstruction remains unfinished.
One of the United States’ greatest tragedies is that following its collapse, Reconstruction has been vilified, demonized, ignored, and described as a failure. Civil Rights, racial equality, and a strong federal government that protected the rights of all Americans were all created during Reconstruction. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and today’s diverse America would not be possible without Reconstruction, so it is an American tragedy that most of us know so little about this era and often overlook its importance.
I believe that the Americans who champion civil rights, unity, racial equality, and justice are actually championing the ideals and philosophy of Reconstruction. The Reconstructionist will help give them the language, wisdom, knowledge, and history to better understand, articulate, and implement the changes they want to see in the world.
Become a Reconstructionist!
What comes with a free subscription.
Each week, I will publish 1-2 articles that are available for free. These pieces will talk about history, politics, culture, philosophy, and my journey as a modern-day philosopher through the lens of Reconstructionism.
What comes with a paid subscription.
In addition to getting the satisfaction of helping to fund The Reconstructionist and keeping it afloat, you’ll also get exclusive content each week and the opportunity to “symphilosophize,” or “do philosophy together,” with me.
This exclusive content will consist of video, audio, and written content, and will evolve over time based on the feedback and requests from my paid subscribers.
Overall, the paid subscription will be for the Reconstructionists who want to learn more about the philosophy, ask questions, and explore how they can apply the philosophy in their daily lives and careers.
