Under Threat: Defending Social Science in an Anti-Science Age

Session Submission Type: Invited Session (90 minute)

Description

In an era marked by growing polarization, science denial, and disinformation, the social sciences face escalating challenges—from skepticism and political interference to drastic funding cuts. This session explores the multi-faceted attacks on social science and the broader implications for democracy, public policy, and social science itself. Panelists will examine how sociology has become a political target, the consequences of defunding and dismantling crucial data-gathering institutions and enterprises, and the erosion of trust in expertise. At the same time, this session will make the case for why sociology is more essential than ever—shedding light on inequality, informing public health, understanding political behavior, and guiding efforts to address crises.

Sub Unit

• Thematic Session

Presider

• Joya Misra, University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Panelists

• Adia M. Harvey Wingfield, Washington University in St. Louis

• Amy J. Binder, Johns Hopkins University

• Timothy S. Black, Case Western Reserve University

• Teresa A. Sullivan, University of Virginia

• Natasha Warikoo, Tufts University

Session Organizer

• Marianne Cooper, Stanford University