McCourtney Institute for Democracy

Advances democracy through scholarship, teaching, and civil public discourse on policy and governance

Primary audience
Citizens and scholars
Work area
Education and research
Topic
Democratic governance
Website Contact

About Organization

The McCourtney Institute for Democracy promotes scholarship and practical innovations that defend and advance democracy in the United States and abroad. Based in University Park, PA, the Institute leverages Penn State's resources to foster informed, civil deliberation and policymaking. Through teaching, research, and public outreach, it engages citizens and scholars in democratic processes.

What They Focus On

Democratic Scholarship

Producing rigorous research on democratic institutions, civic engagement, and challenges facing modern democracies

Civil Discourse

Creating spaces for informed, respectful dialogue across political and social differences in polarized environments

Policy Innovation

Developing practical approaches to improve government responsiveness, deliberation, and democratic policymaking processes

How They Work

Learn more
  • 01

    Research Democracy

    Conduct scholarship on democratic institutions, challenges, and innovations in the United States and globally

  • 02

    Teach Citizens

    Provide education and training that develops informed, engaged participants in democratic processes

  • 03

    Facilitate Dialogue

    Convene public forums and deliberations that bridge differences and promote civil discourse

  • 04

    Advance Practice

    Develop and share practical innovations that strengthen democratic governance and policymaking

Programs and Initiatives

Services and programs offered by McCourtney Institute for Democracy

Democratic Scholarship

Conducts and supports research on democratic institutions, processes, and challenges facing modern democracies

Civil Deliberation

Facilitates public forums and dialogue that promote informed, respectful engagement across political and social differences

Democracy Education

Provides teaching and educational programs that equip students with skills for democratic citizenship and engagement

Policy Innovation

Develops practical approaches to improve policymaking, government responsiveness, and democratic governance systems

Team & Leadership

Meet the people behind McCourtney Institute for Democracy.

Team information not available.

Contact

Get in touch with McCourtney Institute for Democracy

Email

[email protected]
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University Park, PA 16801