Position Paper

Publication of SOC (formerly SCSS) Science Position Paper


VITAL QUESTIONS
The Contribution of European Social Science


Vital Questions describes the current state and future prospects of the social sciences in Europe. Written, edited and reviewed by leading social scientists, it contributes to the public understanding of scientific research – much of it supported by the European Science Foundation and its Member Organisations – and of the contribution that social science is making and can make in future to the solution of challenges of vital importance to the people and societies of Europe. Download

 

Background


The Standing Committee for the Social Sciences (SOC (formerly SCSS)) decided, at its Autumn 2007 Plenary meeting, to initiate work on a Position Paper.  Subsequently, it was agreed that the paper should be composed of three main sections:

 

  1. The main societal issues to the solution of which social sciences have contributed so far and are expected to do in the future

  2. The relative standing of social sciences in and outside of Europe

  3. the deficiencies and gaps in the provisions under the conditions of which social sciences exist in Europe

 

The process

Definition of content
The Editorial Board made suggestions in relation to the content and focal points of the paper, subsequently elaborated and approved at the SOC (formerly SCSS) Spring 2008 Plenary.

Consultations and Drafts
In the period May 2008 - December 2008, consultations took place with ESF Member Organisations and Professional Associations to gather views on the standing of social sciences in Europe, current gaps and provisions needed.  The papers on the societal issues are also being drafted by authors - well-known scholars and Standing Committee members.

Data for comparison of where the Social Sciences stand in Europe and on a global level
The ESF is collaborating with the International Social Science Council (ISSC) to commission data for comparative purposes.  The ISSC is currently working on a World Social Science Report.

The Expert Board met in March 2009, in order to discuss the available drafts and suggest a harmonised presentation for the Position Paper.  

In October 2009, the Standing Committee for the Social Sciences (SOC (formerly SCSS)) approved publication. 

 

 

Next Steps...

  • A wide distribution of the report is in process.

  • Debates on how best to follow up the six recommendations in the Conclusions section will take place.



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Last update: 11/12/09