The Social Sciences are taking on an increasingly important role in the face of global and local challenges, in terms of diagnosis and foresight, the production of knowledge and intervention, decision-making and influencing public policies.
A fundamental area for understanding the world, especially considering the dynamics and vulnerabilities of contemporary societies, the Social Sciences are often called upon to reflect on today's pressing issues, as well as playing an active role as co-protagonists of changes and trajectories that promote more sustainable, supportive and just futures. This effort requires a collaborative approach, involving not only those responsible for public policy, but also the entire academic and scientific community.
Consolidating the relevance of the Social Sciences is a challenge whose time has come! There is an urgent need to foster critical thinking and creativity, based on disciplinary knowledge that intersects, giving rise to new solutions.
We advocate an ICS as a privileged locus for quality and differentiating teaching and research projects, combined with creative and innovative pedagogical approaches. We also advocate building scientific knowledge on the basis of a demanding and increasingly internationalized culture.
We invite everyone - lecturers, researchers, administrative and management staff and students - to be part of this mission, working side by side to build an ICS where the Social Sciences coexist with the rest of the world.