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Stanford offers world renowned scholarship on democracy and civic life. The following allows you to dive into areas where Stanford's expertise is shaping the future of democratic knowledge and practice—from civic education and constitutional law to depolarization and digital governance. 

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Explore Scholarship Across Campus

Stanford's expertise on democracy derives from scholars across multiple departments, centers, and institutions that power a vibrant research ecosystem. Learn more about the research and programs housed at the School of Humanities and Sciences, Stanford Law School, Hoover Institution, and Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, which are home to much of our scholarship on understanding and strengthening democracy. 

Stanford School of Humanities and Sciences

The School of Humanities and Sciences is the heart of Stanford’s academic life, advancing research across the arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Explore how scholars are deepening our understanding of the world and the human experience through groundbreaking inquiry and creative expression.

Stanford Law School

Stanford Law School

Stanford Law School is at the forefront of legal research, tackling complex issues from technology and human rights to climate policy and criminal justice reform. Discover how faculty and students are shaping the future of law through innovative scholarship and real-world impact.

Hoover Institution

The Hoover Institution

The Hoover Institution at Stanford produces rigorous, policy-oriented research on pressing social, economic, and political issues. Explore the work of scholars shaping national and global conversations on governance, security, and freedom.

Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies

The Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies (FSI) at Stanford conducts interdisciplinary research addressing critical global challenges, including health, security, and democracy, and is home to the Center on Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law. Discover how FSI scholars are advancing understanding and driving solutions on the world’s most urgent issues. 

Explore by Issue Area

With leading scholars across schools and disciplines, Stanford offers deep expertise on the issues most important to thriving democracies. Explore specific areas below to learn more about what Stanford's scholars are researching to advance democratic governance.

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