Bridging the gap between academia and real-world problems
The Mercatus Center at George Mason University is the world’s premier university source for market-oriented ideas.
As a university-based research center, the Mercatus Center advances knowledge about how markets work to improve people’s lives.
Our mission is to bridge the gap between academic research and public policy problems by advancing an understanding of the economics of public policy. We do this through education and talent development, research, and outreach initiatives.
What does the Mercatus Center do?
Mercatus scholars conduct research, work with students and early-career professionals to apply a mainline economic framework to societal problems. Mercatus makes research findings available to the media, policymakers and academics to connect academic learning with real-world practice.
Mercatus History
Founded in 1980, the Mercatus Center is located on George Mason University’s Arlington and Fairfax campuses. As part of Virginia’s largest public research university, the Mercatus Center supports students in George Mason University’s world-renowned department of economics. Former students who have benefited from Mercatus support are among the most creative scholars working in the social sciences today.
Independence of Research
The Mercatus Center at George Mason University is committed to the highest standards of academic quality and credibility for our research procedures and products. We ensure these standards through rigorous internal review, peer review, and a transparent process for selecting and undertaking research projects.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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