Areas of Focus
Culture
Identifying pathways to peaceful coexistence and human flourishing.
Overview
Many indicators today point to widespread failure to blend cultures and belief systems. Instead, an exaggerated sense of association with those with whom we agree and a vilification of those with whom we disagree has brought increased cultural antagonism. This has brought a corresponding rise in violence and left us living closer to our lowest common denominators than our highest potential.
Even within the same cultures, there has been increasing divisiveness, often with violent aims and outcomes.
The Institute approaches the study of culture with a global lens and has as its primary goal the pursuit of peaceful coexistence. The focus on culture includes an insistence on critical thinking and a goal of shining a light on what is often an invisible framework that determines how and what people think and feel.
Key Issues
Cultural Cohesion
What enables diverse communities to live and work together effectively? The Institute examines evidence from around the world.
Norms and Influences
Culture influences individual thoughts and expectations. The Institute examines how those change and expand over time.
Conflict and Reconciliation
Understanding how cultural conflicts arise and how they can be resolved is central to the Institute's mission.
Cultural Evolution
Cultures change over time. The Institute examines the forces that drive cultural evolution and their implications.
