Welcome to NPEI

A growing need for enhanced democratic participation in society prompted the formation of the Northern Plains Ethics Institute (NPEI). Chartered by the North Dakota Board of Higher Education in 2000, the NPEI’s Initiative at NDSU has addressed some very important ethical challenges in agriculture, education, political life, health-care, technology, and business facing the area and nation.  

Our work has included many events such as conferences, think tanks, town hall meetings, and public fora covering a wide array of topics pertinent to today’s world. In addition, the NPEI has supported projects aimed at improving the quality of life in the Northern Plains and beyond

The NPEI depends on the quality of people who have volunteered to be involved with the Institute. We have discovered that many have an eagerness to influence the direction of society if only they have an instrument through which to work. We are aware that too many of the institutions of democracy seem distant and imposing. The NPEI is one way in which the public can join the discussion and help formulate pragmatic solutions and approaches, which is the substance of democracy.