The Roosevelt Institution

Social Contract

From Hobbes onward, political philosophers have striven to define the obligations of a government to its people, and vice versa. At this conference, we aim to take this debate out of the realm of the theoretical, and apply it to real questions relating to social policy in the United States. Through the discussion of student policy proposals, conference participants will probe the question of how American government on the local, state, and federal level can better reflect the needs and interest of the people. Through showcasing student work on contemporary policy issues and providing a forum that encourages students to reflect critically on their work and that of their peers, we encourage a broader debate on these issues among students, faculty, and policymakers.

Program of Events

1:00-1:30 Introductory Address

David Merchant, Executive Director of the Policy Studies Organization

Break out sessions with policy presentations:

1:30 - 2:45

Session 1: Holistic  Approach to Community Well-Being

Session 2: Public Health Care Infrastructure and the Family

2:45 - 4:00

            Session 3: Economics of Health Insurance

            Session 4: Environmentalism: Obligations to Future Generations

4:00 - 4:45 Keynote Speaker:

Jacob Hacker, Professor of Political Science, Yale University

4:45 - 5:00 Awarding of Prize

5:00 - 5:30 Reception