What do Harry Jaffa, Claes G. Ryn, Leo Strauss, and the Philadelphia Society share in common? First, each one plays a part in this controversy, which Jonah already has mentioned. Second, each one is an entry in American Conservatism: An Encyclopedia (aka ACE). A sampler:

Jaffa: “…devoting the bulk of his productive scholarly career to uncovering and articulating the natural right principles of the American founding, particularly as those principles are expressed in the Declaration of Independence.”

Ryn: “Conservative critic of democratic excess in the American system, influential thinker in conservative political theory, and internationally known moral philosopher…”

Strauss: “…credited with reviving interest in classical political philosophy because he believed the study of the classics held the key to understanding the modern ‘crisis of the West.’” (See also “Straussianism.”)

Philly Soc: “A forum for conservative thinkers to discuss the meaning of ordered liberty in a frank and open exchange of ideas.”