When I was a young, liberal college student, I held great respect for Christopher Hitchens. Presently, I am older (surprise, surprise) and rather conservative, but what has not changed is my respect for Christopher Hitchens. It is hard not to respect a person who so defends the principles they believe in with such non-violent gusto. Though I disagreed with many of Hitchens’ beliefs, he was always worth listening to and his arguments were always worthy of thoughtful analysis. He also earned a special place in my heart by refusing to suffer fools. Here’s a short video of Hitchens discussing Islamist violence and ideology:

A better friend to the liberal world order, you will not find. Rest in Peace.