The Philosophy of Social Science
Photo by Toru Wa on Unsplash
This talk will draw upon Alexander Betts' recent book Social Science: A Very Short Introduction to offer a contemporary take on the philosophy of social science. It will focus in particular on the underpinnings of interdisciplinary social science, arguing that across disciplines, the social sciences have more in common than that which divides them. The talk will aim to cover three broad questions. First, what are the core characteristics, unifying features, and debates across different approaches to interdisciplinary social science? Second, how can we think about what it means to 'do' interdisciplinary social science as a practice? Third, what wider social responsibilities do social scientists have in a divided and fractured world?
Alexander Betts is Professor of Forced Migration and International Affairs at the University of Oxford, where he is also Pro-Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement, Sport, and Community) and a Senior Fellow in Politics at Brasenose College. His recent books include Social Science: A Very Short Introduction (OUP 2024) and The Wealth of Refugees: How Displaced People Can Build Economies (OUP 2021). He is a Fellow of the British Academy and of the Academy of Social Sciences. He has been awarded the ESRC's International Impact Prize, the ISA's ENMISA section Distinguished Book Award, and named as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader. He was previously Director of the Refugee Studies Centre, Associate Head of the Social Sciences Division (Graduate and Research Training), and Director of the Grand Union DTP.
Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and once places are full, we will maintain a waiting list.
Please only register if you are certain of your availability and commitment to attend.
