The Institute for Human Ecology

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The Institute for Human Ecology

Dedicated to the scientific understanding of man as the “center and crown” of nature (Gaudium et Spes 12). (Mt 25:40).

In response to Pope Francis’s plea in Laudato Sí for an “ecological conversion” for the faithful, and the development of a properly human ecology, the Institute for Human Ecology at The Catholic University of America seeks to promote an integrated understanding of human beings in their relationships with one another, with society, and with the natural world in the light of both reason and faith. T

he institute is dedicated to rigorous multi-disciplinary academic research and public outreach at the intersection of Catholic social teaching, environmental stewardship, and economic development. The institute will sponsor and organize research, analyze public policy, publish national studies, work closely with lawmakers, policymakers and Church leaders, train and promote its own cadre of students and young researchers, and offer symposia, conferences, debates, and lectures for academia and the public square. The Catholic Church brings a distinct perspective to the discussion of environmental and economic questions. This contribution calls us to care for creation and for "the least of these." Inspired by biblical revelation and natural law, the “Catholic way” is ultimately rooted in a profound sense of human ecology that understands nature as a creation and that does not divorce the well-being of creation from that of human beings.

08/19/2026

"Fellows in Focus” highlights the scholars whose research and teaching animate the work of the Gibbons Institute.

Senior Fellow Elizabeth Kirk, J.D., is Co-Director of the Center for Law and the Human Person and Assistant Professor at The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law. Her scholarship explores law and the family, including parental rights, reproductive technologies, abortion jurisprudence, child welfare, and adoption. She also examines the relationship between the Catholic intellectual tradition and the law, bringing a valuable perspective to questions at the intersection of faith, family, and public life.

Learn more about Professor Kirk and her work here: https://gibbonsinstitute.catholic.edu/elizabeth-kirk-j-d/

08/17/2026

A recent study published in "Developmental Science" examined the relationship between cultural values, religious faith, and anxiety among children and adolescents across three decades of data.

Gibbons Institute Senior Fellow Brandon Vaidyanathan, who was quoted in the National Catholic Register's coverage of the study, highlighted a particularly striking finding: the religious character of a child’s surrounding social environment may matter even more than the faith practices of the individual family.

As Brandon explained, shared religious communities can provide “belonging, order, meaning, purpose, routine” and a framework of shared norms and obligations.

Read the full article from the National Catholic Register to learn more about the study and Brandon’s insights here: https://www.ncregister.com/cna/religious-faith-can-protect-against-anxiety-disorders-in-youth-says-study?amp

08/13/2026

"Fellows in Focus" highlights the scholars whose research and teaching animate the work of the Gibbons Institute.

Junior Fellow Dr. Peter Kadeli is a conductor, educator, and scholar whose work centers on sacred music and the role of beauty in the life of the Church. He serves as Head of Sacred Music and Director of Choral Activities at The Catholic University of America, where he also holds the Dom Mocquereau Chair in Liturgical Music.

Through his scholarship, teaching, and musical leadership, Dr. Kadeli contributes to the Gibbons Institute's House of Beauty & Culture, helping to deepen the Institute's engagement with the sacred arts and their place in Catholic intellectual and cultural life.

Learn more about Dr. Kadeli and the Gibbons Institute's fellows here: https://gibbonsinstitute.catholic.edu/scholars/faculty-scholars/

08/10/2026

What happens to a society when its population begins to shrink?

In her September 2025 lecture, “Will Our Population Collapse? Insights from a Mother of Eight,” Gibbons Institute Executive Director Catherine Pakaluk examines the demographic changes reshaping our world and what they could mean for the future of families, economies, and society.

“We’ve never lived through a period of depopulation like this...and the theories would suggest stagnation and economic contraction.”

Revisit Catherine’s lecture, originally presented at the University of Texas at Austin, and consider the demographic questions that will shape generations to come.

🎥 Watch the full lecture here: youtube.com/watch?v=fjg1j7xy10k

08/07/2026

"Fellows in Focus" highlights the scholars whose research and teaching animate the work of the Gibbons Institute.

Distinguished Senior Fellow Father Paul Sullins is a sociologist whose research examines the family, religion, and Catholic social thought through the lens of rigorous empirical inquiry. His scholarship explores questions of family structure, child wellbeing, clergy studies, and the social realities that shape contemporary culture, bringing data-driven analysis to some of today's most important conversations.

Learn more about Father Sullins and the work of our Fellows at https://gibbonsinstitute.catholic.edu/scholars/faculty-scholars/

08/05/2026

Senior Fellow Michael New was recently quoted in The Washington Times on a trend shaping the lives of many young adults: more members of Generation Z are choosing to spend weekends at home.

In the article, Dr. New discusses how this shift may further reduce opportunities for romantic relationships at a time when marriage rates continue to decline. Alongside concerns about loneliness, financial pressures, and technology addiction, these trends raise important questions about the future of community and family.

At the Gibbons Institute, our fellows bring research and thoughtful analysis to the cultural challenges that will shape society for years to come.

Read the full article here: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2026/jul/29/behavioral-experts-flag-loneliness-risks-young-adults-stay-home/

07/29/2026

"Fellows in Focus" highlights the scholars whose research and teaching animate the work of the Gibbons Institute.

Distinguished Senior Fellow Dr. Mark Clark is the John C. and Gertrude P. Hubbard Chair of Medieval Church History and Theology at The Catholic University of America. An internationally respected scholar of medieval theology, his research is reshaping our understanding of Scholasticism and the intellectual traditions that have shaped the life of the Church. Through his scholarship and teaching, Dr. Clark contributes to the Gibbons Institute's mission of advancing rigorous inquiry rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition.

Learn more about Dr. Clark and our distinguished community of fellows here!
https://gibbonsinstitute.catholic.edu/scholars/faculty-scholars/

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Washington D.C., DC

Telephone

+12023195892

Website

https://linktr.ee/ihe_cua

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