Institute for Humane Studies

About Promoting Intellectual Discovery and Human Flourishing Rooted in the classical liberal tradition, IHS is a non-profit organization that supports the achievement of a free society by connecting and supporting graduate students, scholars, and intellectuals who are driving human progress in critical conversations shaping the 21st century. Advancing the Ideas of the Good Society We believe that ideas within the classical liberal tradition serve as the foundation for the good society — an intellectually open, tolerant, and pluralistic society — in which individuals and communities thrive in peace, prosperity, and mutual respect. For those ideas to take root, it is essential they are taught, explored, challenged, and developed in higher education. Our History The Institute for Humane Studies was founded in 1961 by Dr. F. A. “Baldy” Harper, a former economics professor at Cornell University. Part of a generation that lived through two devastating world wars and saw the rise of totalitarian dictatorships, Harper set up an institute devoted to research and education with the conviction that a greater understanding of human affairs and freedom would foster peace, prosperity, and social harmony. Based for many years in Menlo Park, California, IHS moved to Fairfax, Virginia, in 1985 and affiliated with George Mason University (GMU). IHS is proud to be part of the community at GMU, which has built a culture that values intellectual diversity and freedom of thought and expression. The Institute for Humane Studies is an educational organization described in sections 501(c)(3) and 170(b)(1)(A)(vi) of the Internal Revenue. Our Values The team at IHS is united by our mission and by a culture dedicated to lifelong learning and responsible action. Our values drive the personal and professional fulfillment of all team members and guide our daily decisions and efforts. We Are Curious. We value ideas and cherish the intellect. We strive for learning and growth and look to multiple sources. We value opposing views and welcome both challenges and challengers alike. We Are Accountable. We commit to results and measure them. We are solutions-oriented. We learn from failure, celebrate success, and take ownership of both. We Are Responsible. We insist on personal integrity and open, honest communication within IHS and between IHS and outside organizations. We Are Enterprising. We have a bias for action. We are proactive, looking for opportunities to improve ourselves and our work, to fill gaps, to solve problems, and to support our colleagues and allies.