Planned for summer 2028
A summer of serious inquiry.
A proposed three-week residential program in classical realism, the open society, and the foundations of social inquiry.
We are developing a residential summer institute for intellectually curious high school students and recent graduates. The proposed program would bring students to St. Charles, Missouri, for sustained reading, seminar discussion, and independent writing.
What students would study
Classical realism provides a foundation for thinking about power, diplomacy, war, and political responsibility. A connected strand examines the open society, tyranny, and the epistemological questions underlying the social sciences.
Students would compare arguments, reconstruct historical explanations, identify assumptions, and defend judgments against serious objections. Planned teaching includes James O. Reineke's work on classical realism and epistemology; additional instructors and course offerings remain to be confirmed.
How the three weeks would develop
Foundations
Read central arguments, establish questions, and develop an essay proposal.
Comparison
Test rival explanations, discuss historical cases, and receive outline feedback.
Judgment
Bring the inquiry together through writing, revision, and final discussion.
Life beyond the seminar
The proposed residential format includes shared meals, study, supervised recreation, and regional excursions. Possible destinations include Forest Park, the Gateway Arch, and the Delmar Loop or Central West End. Final arrangements for supervision, transport, and student care would be published before enrollment opens.
Questions from students and families
Who is the program intended for?
The current proposal is for approximately 30 high school students and recent graduates, ages 14–18, recruited nationally. Final eligibility requirements will accompany the application.
Where and when would it take place?
The intended location is St. Charles, Missouri, over three consecutive weeks in summer 2028. Exact dates and the host venue are not confirmed.
What is the proposed tuition?
The planning figure is $5,000, including instruction, housing, meals, and scheduled activities. Travel to Missouri is excluded. Final pricing and all financial terms will be published before applications or payments are accepted.
How demanding would the academic work be?
The current proposal includes a minimum of 15 classroom hours per week through course selection, substantial coordinated reading, and one 2,000–3,000-word essay developed over the program with feedback. The workload and course choices remain subject to final faculty planning.
Would students receive academic credit?
The proposed initial program is noncredit and would award an Institute completion certificate. No university credit or university alumni status is promised.
When can students apply?
Application dates will be announced after the venue, staffing, and operating arrangements are confirmed. The email updates page will carry details when the mailing list opens.