James Wilson Doctoral Programme in Constitutional Studies
By adopting this system, we shall probably lay a foundation for erecting temples of liberty, in every part of the earth. It has been thought by many that, on the success of the struggle America has made for freedom, will depend the exertions of the brave and enlightened of other nations. The advantages resulting from this system will not be confined to the United States; it will draw from Europe many worthy characters who pant for the enjoyment of freedom. It will induce princes, in order to preserve their subjects, to restore to them a portion of that liberty of which they have for many ages been deprived. It will be subservient to the great designs of Providence, with regard to this globe; the multiplication of mankind, their improvement in knowledge, and their advancement in happiness.
James Wilson, 11 December 1787
Pennsylvania Constitution Ratification Convention
The James Wilson Doctoral Programme in Constitutional Studies is named in honour of one our most important alumni, and a founding father of the American Republic, James Wilson. As befits Wilson’s legacy, the programme will allow innovative research into the subject of constitutionalism, exploring both its origins in the ancient world and its increasing centrality to thinking and practice in contemporary international relations. As such, the studies will be fully interdisciplinary, allowing the student to draw principally on the expertise of the University’s Schools of Classics and International Relations and others as appropriate. The resulting research will deliver insights that are not merely of academic interest but will contribute to our understanding of contemporary constitutional foundations and the likelihood of their sustainability.
The programme is housed within the Centre for Global Constitutionalism. It is open only to doctoral candidates of the very highest calibre. It is envisaged that the programme will create a distinguished community of scholars who would contribute in academic and non-academic fields.
