The writings of Catholic convert Russell Kirk exert no more than a marginal influence outside of limited circles, which is a common cause for lament among the best contemporary American political thinkers and social critics. I share this view. But I would add that at least the accomplishments of the self-described “Bohemian Tory” as a philosopher, critic and historian are generally recognised. His influence is limited because the American right, dominated by classical liberalism, has an aversion to his traditionalist political principles.