William F. Buckley Jr., perhaps the intellectual founding father of America’s modern conservative movement, has died. He was 82 years old. Kathryn Jean Lopez announces that the founder of the (online) magazine she works for, National Review (Online), died while at work. As she remarks, “if he had been given a choice on how to depart this world, I suspect that would have been exactly it.”

Buckley was a remarkable man, and was - still is - one of the few individuals I consider to be inspiring. He was a staunch conservative, yes; he was ideologically drives, yes; but he was so darn reasonable nonetheless. He debated people based on solid arguments. He didn’t use empty rhetoric simply because he didn’t need it.

One of the most memorable lines he ever uttered was when he was allowed to attempt the American people to vote for Nixon and not for his Democratic rival. Buckley’s response? Some act as if electing a president is the most important thing in the world. They act as if, if you choose the wrong candidate, the world is going to end, America will be destroyed, andsoforth. But, that’s not the case, he explained. Elections are about the general direction you want to take your country in.

But elections will never result in hell, nor heaven on earth.

A typical example of his attitude.

Also be sure to read Kevin’s post:

 This is what critics should take away from Buckley.  He had all sorts on his program, and embraced all forms of political dialogue and debate.  He did it with wit, class and calm.  We need a little bit more of that today, I think.  Especially in the age of “New Media,” where partisan blathering and bickering tends to get you hit points like in some role playing game.

He links to this exchange, which is well worth your time.

More at Michelle Malkin’s place and Captain’s Quarters.