Celebrating the social sciences
7 November 2011
The flagship Festival event 'Celebrating the social sciences' showcased the impacts of social science research to an audience of over 100 senior academics and policymakers. Guest speakers David Willetts MP, Minister for Science and Universities, and Mark Easton, BBC News Home Editor, highlighted the impacts and the contribution of UK social sciences to the UK and internationally.
The event saw the launch of a new ESRC video and booklet celebrating the social sciences.
"Quite simply, the social sciences are essential to understanding human behaviour, the wellbeing of citizens and promoting sustainable growth. The UK has an internationally acclaimed social science research community, championed by ESRC. Social science research generates vital knowledge that informs policy, helping us navigate our way through the world as individuals and as a society."
David Willetts MP, Minister for Science and Universities
David Willetts has also commented on the event and the impact of social sciences on The BIS Blog: Celebrating the value and relevance of the social sciences.
The impact of social science research
The ESRC booklet 'Celebrating the social sciences' showcases 19 case studies of research making a difference, across all sectors of society. With a foreword by ESRC Chief Executive Paul Boyle and introduction by BBC News Home Editor Mark Easton.
Video
The impact of social science research is shown in eight case studies - ranging from military operations in Afghanistan and changing prison practices to reducing firesetting of grasslands and helping young people become more resilient.