By Eddie Kämpgen
Five years after the passing of Sir Roger Scruton, his voice still echoes in the hearts of those who cherish beauty, tradition, and the ties that bind us. The British philosopher, writer, and public intellectual, who died on January 12, 2020, at 75, left behind a towering legacy that continues to shape conversations about conservatism, culture, and the human spirit.
Born on February 27, 1944, in Buslingthorpe, Lincolnshire, Scruton grew up in a simple home. His father, Jack, a teacher and socialist, and his mother, Beryl, who loved literature and music, shaped his early years. The family’s frequent moves gave young Roger a sense of rootlessness, but his studies at Jesus College, Cambridge, where he read philosophy, set him on a path of intellectual discovery.
Scruton’s career was remarkably broad. He wrote over 50 books, tackling everything from aesthetics to politics. Works like The Meaning of Conservatism (1980) and Beauty: A Very Short Introduction (2009) made him a giant in conservative thought. Beyond philosophy, he penned novels, composed music, and wrote for outlets like The Times and The Spectator. His sharp, often bold commentary made him a key figure in Britain’s cultural debates. In 2016, he was knighted for his contributions to philosophy and education.
When Scruton passed away at his Wiltshire home after a battle with cancer, he was surrounded by his wife, Sophie Jeffreys, 52, and their children, Sam and Lucy. Tributes poured in, celebrating his brilliance and warmth. Imogen Sinclair, 31, New Social Covenant Unit from Cheshire, who studied under Scruton’s influence, shared her sorrow: “I knew Sir Roger was unwell and had made contact with him and Lady Scruton over the Summer and Winter of 2020. I was full of grief on the news of Sir Roger's death and offered these thoughts to UnHerd.”
Scruton’s philosophy endures via the Roger Scruton Legacy Foundation, established on August 26, 2020. Fisher Derderian, 32, from Orange County, California, and a former University of Buckingham student, heads the foundation. He says, to commemorate Sir Roger with an institution matching his legacy is a grand vision. He adds, excited to have the chance to guide it. Sophie Scruton expressed her joy, delighted by the Roger Scruton Legacy Foundation's launch.
Today, Scruton’s call to protect art, culture, and community feels more urgent than ever. His books are still widely read, sparking debates about tradition and the future of conservatism. To some, he was a defender of Western values against relativism. To others, his views seemed out of step with modern ideals. Yet, his focus on beauty and moral duty challenges us all to reflect on what truly matters.
Experience of audio simulating Imogen Sinclair’s voice and thoughts in the article.
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