The Northwood Idea
One of the major goals we have for the graduates of Northwood University is that they understand this nation’s tradition of freedom and all of its corollaries: individualism, moral law, personal responsibility, private property, free markets, limited government, and business enterprise. We believe these are the foundations of America’s progress and prosperity.
We endorse a set of values consistent with the pursuit of individual development and human progress. At Northwood University, we believe in:
Individual Freedom and Responsibility
We celebrate the power of freedom to choose and accept the personal responsibility for the consequences of decisions.
Moral Law
We respect the “Golden Rule” requiring each of us to treat others as we would like to be treated.
Earned Success
Success has a price. We encourage personal choices that drive progress through courage, self-discipline, hard work and thrift.
The Importance of Free Enterprise
We thrive as society through voluntary cooperation to create value through serving others’ needs, which in turn advances prosperity and provides funding for schools, charities and government services.
Promoting The Northwood Idea
The Northwood Idea is reflected in many ways at Northwood University. Elements of The Northwood Idea are woven into courses in context. Many events and activities also reinforce the core concepts of The Northwood Idea. The following are some examples:
Freedom Seminar
Every year, Northwood University hosts a multi-day Freedom Seminar, which is a symposium on free-enterprise system led by distinguished academic and business leaders. Recordings from past sessions and more information is available by visiting the Freedom Seminar web page.
McNair Center
The McNair Center for the Advancement of Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship at Northwood University is a think tank focused on the advocacy and expansion of free market economics.
Free Online Course on The Northwood Idea
Check out the first lesson of our complimentary online course, “Philosophy of Free Enterprise.”
True North
Driven by Northwood University and powered by the guiding values of The Northwood Idea, True North is a website platform that serves as a global connector supporting the exchange of free-market ideas, philosophies and practices.
More About Northwood University
The Northwood Idea is an important component of Northwood’s mission and values. You can read more of our history and philosophy on our About page.