Misson Statement of
The Institute
of Political Economy
The Utah State University Institute of Political Economy brings
theory and practice to the study of how public policies influence
economic and social welfare.
To accomplish this mission we conduct basic research and disseminate
findings and conclusions through publications, classes, seminars,
conferences, and lectures. We also involve students in the study
and practice of political economy through research projects and
internships.
Our underlying goal is to promote a better understanding of the
foundations of a free society.
Constitutional Studies Program
| Political Ecology Program
Policy Analysis Program
| Internship Program
Constitutional Studies Program
Professor Anthony Peacock directs the Constitutional Studies
Program and oversees the Law and Constitutional Studies major
in the political science department. This program considers how
constitutional rules affect political and economic processes.
By studying the theory, history, and development of constitutional
thought, students and faculty engage the issues and principles
that have been the impetus to constitutional government--natural
and civil rights, a market economy, a self-governing citizenry,
voluntary associations, and the rule of law.
Objectives:
1. Designed for students interested in leadership roles in business,
public communications, government, education of the study or practice
of law.
2. Bring to the study of constitutional government the insights
of philosophy, economics, and history.
3. Clarify the connection between constitutional government and
the related ideas of liberty, virtue, free enterprise, and private
property.
4. Emphasize the major writings of the American Revolution and Founding.
5. Compare the American experience with constitutional government
with that of other countries, including current attempts at constitution
building in emerging democracies.
Political
Ecology Program
Professor Charles E. Kay, who holds a PhD in Wildlife Ecology, directs
the Political Ecology program. This program seeks to better understand
political, economic, and ecological implications of human institutions
and public policies.
Objectives:
1. Conduct science-based field studies on the effects of public
policies; including grazing issues, national park management, predator
ecology, endangered species management, and wilderness management,
as well as aboriginal influences and the original state of nature,
among others.
2. Clarify the connections between politics, economic, and evolutionary
ecology.
3. Develop proposed policies and procedures for environmental management
based on sound ecological science.
Policy Analysis Program
Professor Randy T. Simmons directs the policy analysis program,
which considers a broad range of public policies but with an emphasis
on state and local government. Recent projects have ranged from
studies of rural health care to state and community responses to
growth.
Objectives:
1. Be a resource or to state and local officials, the press, and
citizens.
2. Provide research experience to outstanding undergraduate and
graduate students who wish to pursue a career in state or local
government.
3. Bring the analytical tools of political economy to focus on public
policy issues.
Internship Program
Intern director Cindy Nielsen coordinates a broad range of internships
that are open to students from any discipline on campus. She specifically
seeks internships that will provide public policy experience and
that will allow the students to use the skills they have developed
at USU.
Objectives:
1. Enhance student education by bringing classroom theory together
with practical experience.
2. Complement future university courses.
3. Provide a competitive edge for students seeking employment--
more job offers, a higher starting salary and more frequent promotions.
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