Our Mission

The Elm Institute is an independent center of philosophical inquiry established alongside Yale University.

The Institute’s work draws upon the Western philosophical tradition in examining enduring questions of human concern as well as pressing issues of contemporary life.

The Institute is home to a rich variety of para-academic programs, and collaborates with the University to foster sustained philosophical reflection across the Yale community.

The Elm Institute’s name honors the rich history of our home, the City of New Haven, which acquired the nickname “the Elm City” after it became the site of the first public tree planting program in the United States. Through projects like these citizens sought to beautify the city and make a lasting contribution to the quality of civic life. Our name reminds us of their efforts and encourages us to pursue our philosophical inquiries with both a sense of history and an eye toward the common good.