Understanding The Civilian-Military Relationship In American Democracy
Talks from the Hoover InstitutionShow Notes
The Hoover Institution Center for Revitalizing American Institutions webinar series features speakers who are developing innovative ideas, conducting groundbreaking research, and taking important actions to improve trust and efficacy in American institutions. Speaker expertise and topics span governmental institutions, civic organizations and practice, and the role of public opinion and culture in shaping our democracy. The webinar series builds awareness about how we can individually and collectively revitalize American institutions to ensure our country’s democracy delivers on its promise. The Hoover Institution's Center for Revitalizing American Institutions held an engaging conversation on Understanding the Civilian-Military Relationship in American Democracy with General Christopher G. Cavoli, US Army (Ret.), General Joseph F. Dunford Jr., USMC (Ret.), and Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster on May 6, 2026, from 10:00-11:00 a.m. PT. This webinar explores the evolving relationship between civilian leadership and the military in the United States—a cornerstone of democratic governance. Drawing on historical context, recent case studies, and expert analysis, the discussion examines how mutual trust, accountability, and respect for constitutional norms sustain healthy civil-military dynamics. Participants gain insight into current challenges, including political polarization, public perceptions of the armed forces, and the appropriate role of military voices in national security and domestic affairs. The session aims to deepen understanding of how civil-military balance reinforces both national security and democratic resilience.
More from Talks from the Hoover Institution
What is the nature of the vast part of China’s penal system that has long been dedicated to extra-judicial detention, imprisonment, and compulsory “forced labor” in the PRC? What sort of effects did this system have on its victims, their families, friendships, marriages, and communities in terms of physical, psychological and social damage? Finally, what will the lingering effects be of these many decades of abuse against society and the body politic? Tune into this discussion on "Inside China's Secret Prisons: An Undercover Exposé and its Lasting Legacy" from Monday, September 28, 2026 from 4:00-5:30 pm PT in the Shultz Auditorium, George P. Shultz Building.
The Alliance for Civics in the Academy held ”What’s New in Civics for 2026? ” with Jenna Silber Storey, William Howell, and Roosevelt Montas on September 10, 2026, from 9:00-10:00 a.m. PT.
The Hoover Institution Center for Revitalizing American Institutions on Thursday, May 14, from 4:00 to 4:50 PM PT in Hauck Auditorium held a panel discussion on The Peril and Promise of Local Journalism in American Democracy.
The Hoover’s History Lab and Center for Revitalizing American Institutions held National Treasure: How the Declaration of Independence Made America, a special book launch with the author, Michael Auslin on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 from 4:00 - 5:15 p.m. PT.
The Alliance for Civics in the Academy hosts ”Can Civic Education be Liberal?” with Melinda Zook, Joseph Knippenberg, Benjamin Storey, and Dan Edelstein on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 9:00–10:00 a.m. PT.