Liberal Studies Intern

*To be considered for an internship, you must apply directly through our online application here.* 

Liberal Studies interns work directly with Cato Distinguished Scholar, and Isaiah Berlin Chair of Liberal Thought, Professor Deirdre N. McCloskey to support her research and publication across a variety of subjects including economic theory, economic history, philosophy, rhetoric, statistical theory, feminism, ethics, and law. Working closely with Professor McCloskey and other Cato scholars, you will build a deeper understanding of the political, economic, and intellectual history of liberalism and its application to contemporary discourse.

Responsibilities

• Copyediting of manuscripts.
• Research details of current research projects and upcoming publications.
• Pursue independent research interests with mentorship from Professor McCloskey.

Qualifications

• Strong qualitative or quantitative research and writing skills
• Deep interest in economic history and theory
• Enthusiasm for supporting efforts to promote understanding and application of classical liberalism
• Familiarity with Prof. McCloskey’s work such as Why Liberalism Works: How True Liberal Values Produce a Freer, More Equal, Prosperous World for All, and Leave Me Alone and I’ll Make You Rich: The Bourgeois Deal.

To achieve the promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, Cato’s scholars typically take a skeptical look at proposals to expand the size, scope, and power of government. Many different policies impact American political life and Cato scholars work to research the different dimensions of life that are affected. Research includes freedom at various levels of the education system, the ability of people to make their own health care decisions, opportunities to reduce poverty through greater economic opportunities, high-quality public opinion surveys to investigate evolving opinions and the advancement of free minds and free markets within technology sectors of the economy.  

About the Cato Internship Program

Cato’s paid internships are for undergraduates, recent graduates, graduate students, law students, and early-career professionals who have a strong commitment to individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace—principles that, taken together, constitute libertarianism, known alternately as “classical liberalism,” “market liberalism,” or, to many of our international friends, just “liberalism.” 

All Cato interns attend the same intensive seminar series, which covers a broad range of history, philosophy, policy, and professional development topics. Interns also aid with events and occasionally help Cato staff with other day-to-day needs. 

Interns receive competitive compensation. Part-time positions are adjusted accordingly and carry a minimum of 25 hrs./wk. Program participants must be available in person in Washington, D.C.  

For more information about the internship program and experience, we encourage you to explore our website.  

If you have any questions, feel free to email Cortez Bartolome, Programs Coordinator, at studentprograms@cato.org