What is education ultimately for — achievement, or something higher?

In this episode of The Liberty Show, Matthew Kirby sits down with Dr. Shilo Brooks — professor of political science at SMU, CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, and author of the forthcoming book Noble Ambition.

Dr. Brooks shares his powerful journey from West Texas to St. John’s College, where a Great Books education reshaped his life. He reflects on the mentor who made his education possible, the discipline of reading Homer and Aristotle line by line, and why liberal education remains essential to forming free citizens.

🎓 In This Episode:

The difference between ambition and noble ambition
How Great Books cultivate judgment and character
Why liberal education prepares students for self-government
The responsibility that comes with opportunity
How mentorship can change the trajectory of a life

Dr. Brooks also co-hosts the YouTube podcast Old School, where he and his colleagues explore classical ideas, politics, and culture through the lens of the Great Books. If you enjoy this conversation, be sure to check out Old School for more thoughtful dialogue.

📘 Look for Dr. Brooks’ upcoming book, Noble Ambition
🎙️ Watch Old School on YouTube
🔗 Learn more about Liberty Classical Schools: libertyclassicalschools.org

Subscribe for more conversations on classical education, civic formation, and raising knowledgeable, virtuous citizens.

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Noble Ambition & Liberal Education | Dr. Shilo Brooks on Great Books and Self-Government