Initiatives

Catholic Social & Political Thought

A historical, philosophical, and scholarly exploration of the Catholic political tradition.

Group of African-Americans, marching near the Capitol building in Washington, D.C., to protest the lynching of four African-Americans in Georgia

First Amendment

Fostering a stronger understanding and appreciation of First Amendment rights—and responsibilities—at UW–Madison.

Annapolis, Maryland: George Washington hands Congress his resignation as commanding general of the Continental Army, December 23, 1783. Painting by John Trumbull.

Civil-Military Relations

Critical questions about how the military, civil government, and wider society interact within the liberal democratic paradigm drive the Civil-Military Initiative.

Civic and Economic Literacy

Preparing graduates for informed and engaged participation in the civic life of their local and national communities.

U.S. Supreme Court and Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building, taken from the U.S. Capitol dome, Washington, D.C.

Courts and the Constitution

Striving to understand judicial behavior, the judicial system, and reforms to that system.