The Institute for Humane Studies, based at George Mason University, is currently soliciting applications for the 2009-10 Humane Studies Fellowship. Last year they awarded $600,000 in scholarships to more than 150 recipients from around the world who are exploring the principles, practices, and institutions necessary to a free society through their academic work. Fellowships are open to graduate students and advanced undergraduates, and include scholarships up to $12,000 to study in the U.S. or abroad. Select winners and finalists are invited to present and discuss their research at the annual Humane Studies Research Colloquium and attend other colloquia throughout the year. Fellows also join a growing network of over 10,000 IHS academics who are committed to the ideas of liberty and intellectual freedom. For more information and instructions on how to apply, visit the Humane Studies Fellowship page online. The deadline to apply is December 31, 2008.

This post first appeared on AHA Today.