Rooted in the classical liberal tradition, IHS is a non-profit organization that supports the achievement of a freer and more humane society by connecting and supporting graduate students, scholars, and intellectuals who are driving progress in critical conversations shaping the 21st century.

IHS provides research funding and career advancing programs for faculty and graduate students working in the following 7 focus areas:

1. Liberalism, Pluralism, and Democracy
2. Free Speech and Open Inquiry
3. Equality and Prosperity
4. Race in America
5. Peace and International Cooperation
6. Immigration and Freedom
7. Business and the Good Society