In Memoriam: David Boaz

Patrick G. Eddington

I can safely say I was far more intimidated by having to prepare for my job interview with David than I was preparing for a series of interviews to get the job with the CIA. Facing someone with a towering intellect will do that to you. I’ll always be grateful that he decided I was good enough to make the cut and join Cato.

In a world in which we’re surrounded by people in our society who are consumed with celebrity, trinkets, and passing fads, David always kept his focus on what mattered most—working to create a society that was truly free and just. Others have spoken on his pivotal role in creating and promoting Cato and its work.

What I’ll remember him for most was what he did in the last months of his life: reminding us that a liberal order is worth fighting for and preserving in an America that is slipping dangerously towards an authoritarian abyss. The best way we can honor David and his legacy is to continue defending that liberal order.