Welcome to a new kind of program. One that looks beyond time and borders to explore the fundamental questions of life, freedom, and governance. One that looks inward to the guiding principles of America’s founders and the leaders who have inspired us. One that combines classic works and altruistic statesmanship to develop a new kind of leader: trained in critical thought, humble about human imperfection, and ready for anything.
Spring 2021 Courses
The school combines philosophy, history, economics and political science to teach students how to examine great ideas and solve contemporary problems. Courses like "Great Ideas in Politics and Ethics," "Justice and Virtue," and "Hamilton and the Founders" prepare students for leadership in a diverse and changing world.
News from the school
ASU, diverse team of collaborators release 'Roadmap to Educating for American Democracy'
March 2, 2021
Funded by a $1.1 million grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the U.S. Department of Education, it includes comprehensive guidance to states and local school districts for the creation of the standards, curricula and instructional materials necessary for excellence in civic learning for 21st-century students.
Massive investment in social studies and civics education proposed to address eroding trust in democratic institutions
March 1, 2021
“We obviously think education for informed and engaged citizens is fundamental to national security and as important to the country as economic preparedness and competitiveness. For the civic fabric of the country, the situation couldn’t be more grave than it is right now,” said Paul Carrese, director, School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership.
Massive investment in civic education proposed to reinvigorate democracy
March 2, 2021
The "Roadmap to Educating for American Democracy," released Tuesday, provides guidance to national, state, local and tribal leaders on how to strengthen K-12 history and civic education practices and standards. This roadmap is the culmination of 18 months of collaboration by more than 300 scholars, educators and practitioners from a variety of ideological, demographic and professional backgrounds.
Upcoming events
Explore our video programming
The school hosts a number of public events each academic year designed to engage the community, as well as ASU students, staff and faculty on the pressing issues of our time. All of our public talks are free and open to the public. They are also available for viewing on our website and our YouTube channel.
Our centers
Center for the Study of Economic Liberty
The Center for the Study of Economic Liberty serves students and the public through research, education, and community outreach regarding the nation’s most pressing economic policy issues. Committed to communicating the role that economic liberty and free enterprise play in increasing opportunity and improving well-being, the Center seeks to advance understanding through independent thinking, scholarly debate, factual argument, and honest communication of research and policy findings.
Center for Political Thought and Leadership
The Center for Political Thought and Leadership develops leaders well-versed in the principles of liberal democracy. Its mission is to impart a deeper understanding of the meaning of political liberty and economic well-being to the academic and at-large community through undergraduate education, scholarly research, and public events. The Center adeptly provides a setting for national and international scholarship in political thought.