HEIP : School of International and Political Studies

The story begins in 1899 when Jeanne Weill, known by her pseudonym Dick May, established the Ecole des Hautes Etudes Sociales on rue de la Sorbonne in Paris. The institution's mission was to educate young people, especially teachers of the Republic, in the emerging field of sociology. It aimed to broaden their perspectives and encourage independent thinking beyond traditional education and media influences. This initiative followed the Dreyfus Affair, a period when many believed that the scandal highlighted deficiencies in the education system. At HEIP, a diverse group of educators and intellectuals, including Sorbonne professors, politicians, and notable figures like Anatole Leroy-Beaulieu and Georges Sorel, took on the challenge of reforming education. Over time, the School expanded its offerings to include a School of Morals, a School of Journalism, and a School of Arts. Distinguished academics such as Émile Durkheim, the pioneer of sociology, Nobel Laureate Anatole France, and Paul Deschanel, former President of France, contributed as teachers. Léon Bourgeois and Charles Péguy were also regular contributors. Romain Rolland, celebrated author of "Jean Christophe," directed the School of Arts, while Gabriel Fauré, Ravel, and Debussy led the musical activities.