Social Sciences

Explore faculty and student work in economics, sociology, political science, anthropology, and other disciplines shaping our understanding of society.

FAS Overhaul Brings Deep Cuts to Social Sciences, Phillips Brooks House

After a final round of layoffs, University leaders say 165 staff jobs were eliminated across the division.

by Lydialyle Gibson

Balancing Security and Freedom in a Democracy

Harvard law professor Yochai Benkler says acts of conscience are integral to balancing security and freedom.

Excerpt from "Fire and Light" by James MacGregor Burns

James MacGregor Burns, Ph.D. ’47, on intellect, governance, and the Enlightenment

Collaboration between Hitler and Hollywood Documented by Harvard's Urwand

A new book documents censorship by Hollywood at the bidding of Hitler's Nazi government.

by Erin O’Donnell

Harvard researchers study technology's effect on adolescent development

Apps are shaping teens' notions of identity, intimacy, and imagination.

by Katherine Xue

Harvard team probes Chinese censorship of social media

Two studies argue that collective action, not criticism, is what the Chinese government fears.

Lawyer James Ryan at Harvard Graduate School of Education

Lawyer James Ryan, new dean of Harvard Graduate School of Education, is a scholar and champion of equal educational opportunity.

by Lincoln Caplan

How the Internet has leveled the playing field in numerous public realms

The Internet has led to cultural and economic changes that tilt power away from large organizations, argues Nicco Mele in a new book.

by Elizabeth Gudrais

Harvard study finds regional differences in intergenerational social mobility

Economists ask what factors help children rise out of poverty.

How We Use Memory in Social Settings

The part of the brain that stores past events also helps to predicts others’ actions.

by Peter Saalfield

Harvard scholar Peter A. Hall links political economy and the euro crisis

The political economy of a continent at cross-purposes

by Peter A. Hall