Values and Politics

The Department of Values and Politics engages in interdisciplinary research that illuminates complex interactions among political systems, societal values, and current issues such as crime, corruption, family, identity, security, and migration. Our findings contribute to the advancement of academic research, informed policy-making, and foster public debate.

The Department of Values and Politics focuses on the systematic study of fundamental processes within political systems and the various societal values that influence them. We explore a wide range of topics, from the formation and dynamics of political parties and patterns of electoral behavior to the construction of national identity and attitudes towards migration.

Our research aims to uncover hidden mechanisms that influence political engagement and public opinion, providing a comprehensive understanding of how political systems function and evolve. Through the analysis of political attitudes, we seek to understand the determinants of political activism and civic participation, as well as factors influencing public trust in political institutions. Our research extends into criminology, examining perceptions of crime, concerns about public safety, and the effectiveness of justice systems in addressing societal security needs.

Furthermore, we investigate corruption to understand its societal impact, the mechanisms that sustain it, and effective strategies for combating it within democratic frameworks. The department also focuses on the dynamics and values of the family, contributing to an understanding of family roles and relationships within broader societal contexts.

Our examination of national identity seeks to understand the values that foster a sense of belonging and unity within diverse populations and political systems. In exploring attitudes towards migration and migrants, we aim to illuminate the social and cultural factors influencing public perception and policy responses.

The department actively participates in a number of international research networks and projects. We manage the European Social Survey in the Czech Republic, and our members contribute to post-election research within the Comparative Study of Electoral Systems and the European Election Study.