Thomas Merrill

Thomas Merrill is an Associate Professor in the School of Public Affairs and Department of Government at American University, serving as Associate Director of the Political Theory Institute.

Education:

• PhD, Duke University
• MA, Duke University
• AB, Fundamentals: Issues and Texts

His research specializes in political philosophy and history of political thought, with focused expertise on David Hume, Enlightenment political theory, and American political development including Civil War-era ideology. Work consistently bridges historical analysis with contemporary political discourse through textual scholarship.

Publications reveal sustained engagement with foundational political texts and pivotal historical moments, particularly examining philosophical underpinnings of American political identity and Enlightenment influences on modern governance.

Scientific Awards:

• Delba Winthrop Prize for Best Recent Work in Political Philosophy (2015)

Professor Merrill has held significant administrative roles including Department Chair and Undergraduate Program Coordinator in Government. Prestigious fellowships from Harvard, Princeton, and the American Enterprise Institute support his research, following prior service as Senior Research Analyst for the President’s Council on Bioethics under George W. Bush.

The Political Theory Institute under his associate directorship actively hosts cross-spectrum public intellectuals and academic theorists for scholarly engagement.