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100+ Social Issues Research Paper Topics

There are many issues in society to write about, making social issue essay topics some of the most fun. However, choosing a social topic for an essay isn’t as easy as it sounds, especially when there are several social essay topics. The secret to choosing the best among the many social topics is knowing what makes the best social topics for an essay, the best.

This article will give you workable tips for choosing a great topic on specific social issues, argumentative essay topics , and social topics. We will also throw in 100 topics on social issues; they can serve as your social topic or inspiration for choosing.

What Are Top Tips for Choosing Social Topics to Write About?

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When it comes to social problems essay topics, the list is endless; there are so many social issues to talk about. However, not all social problem topics will make a great paper, and the wrong social issue topic can reduce your grade. Below are the top practical tips for choosing social issues topics for presentation.

• Choose easy social issues to write about – avoid trying to impress your professor by choosing complex social problems topics you can’t do justice to.
• Choose social problem topics or social media research topics that your audience can relate to and find interesting.
• When choosing from the myriads of social problems to write about, choose those with sufficient information. Also, you don’t want social problem essay topics you’ll have to walk miles to gather information on.
• Pick as many good social issues to write about as possible; chances are you will change issues essay topics midway. You don’t have to return to searching for current issues to write about.
• Source for articles that address problems in society to write about for an idea on how to write yours.

The “best” social topics, like social commentary essay topics, are those you’re passionate about. It would help if you cared about the social issue ideas you’ve decided to write on to do real justice to the paper. Writing an essay on them will be torture if you don’t care or know anything about social commentary ideas. Also, if your audience is clueless about a particular topic, consider omitting technical and social significance topics.

Interesting social topics are not hard to find if you know where to look. We will give you a social issues topics list here, but you can still find social issues ideas all over the internet. Find our social topics list below containing interesting and uncommon social issues for a distinction-worthy paper.

• Political polarization
• Racism in modern society’s healthcare
• Ageism: the new racism?
• The fairness of labor laws
• Fat-shaming in the corporate world
• Recovering addicts and social injustice
• Child pornography
• Prisoner rights violations: the types
• Making vaccinations mandatory
• Online education impact on obesity
• Increasing employment: the solution to poverty?
• Accessibility of healthcare in mobile clinics
• Women empowerment
• Social development in developing countries
• Overpopulation: a threat?
• How social networks impact friendship
• Age restriction on Instagram
• Social media effect on dependency
• Business Facebook accounts and digital ethics
• Cancel culture and mental health
• Restricting children from social media
• How to stay safe on the internet
• Freedom of speech on Twitter
• High cost of medical procedures
• Obesity in developed countries
• Abortion: legal or illegal?
• Drug addiction
• Hospices: should they be free?
• Why HIV in seniors remains unrecognized
• Dying with dignity
• Pro-life movement origins
• The social acceptance of autism
• Effect of malnourishment on children’s psyche
• Impact of fad diets
• Discrimination against older adults
• Acceptability of homeopathic treatment for children
• The scarcity of and state of available healthcare facilities in rural areas
• Poverty and health problems
• Ensuring global access to drinking water
• Implementing sustainable technology in agriculture
• Benefits of studying the environment
• Urban gardening and food security
• Deteriorating environment effect on labor conditions
• Religion and nature
• Global warming impact on South America
• Effect of racial profiling
• Prevalence of hate speech
• Discrimination against the LGBT community
• Modern feminism: the negative impact on society
• Pregnancy termination: morality vs. legality
• Food culture
• Emotional intelligence: impact on family life
• Harmful effects of financial illiteracy
• The perception of “Defund the police.”
• Evidence of structural racism
• The internet’s influence on human trafficking
• Legalizing prostitution
• Civil disobedience goals
• The consequences of restoring prisoners to society
• Influence of prejudices on criminal justice mechanics
• Prominent civil rights violations in developing countries
• Gender blindness
• Gender dysphoria
• The Khmer Rouge
• Social media and racist bias
• Justification of human rights limitations during a crisis
• How governments can secure freedom of speech
• Can satire be harmful?
• Protection of stateless persons
• Can illegal immigrants be pardoned?
• War on drugs: the negative side effects
• The importance of bipartisan cooperation
• College loans: are they worth it?
• Fake news: a severe problem?
• Charter schools vs. public schools
• The Great New Deal: pros and cons
• Gentrification in America
• Ableism effects in the US
• Death penalty: a just punishment?
• Healthcare: a fundamental human right?
• The right to own a gun
• Does history repeat itself?
• Commercials in kids’ programs
• Fiction vs. nonfiction: which is the better read?
• Video games should be a sport
• Hot dogs: have they caused more harm than good?
• Eating dessert before dinner
• Homework: is it too much?
• Should gym classes be required?
• The essentiality of feminism
• Free healthcare for everyone
• Exploring space: is it worth it?
• Parents’ role in childhood obesity
• Woman vs. man: who is more emotional?
• The effects of campaign finance reform
• Should illegal immigrants be granted residency?

With this list of social topics and others you’ll find on the internet, you can’t be short of social issues to talk about. Choosing the best social issues topics is essential for writing a great research paper,or write dissertation for me ranging from social change topics to social awareness topics. Considering the vast amount of community issues to write about, our tips on choosing from the best social relevance topics will come in handy. If you need professional writing services, you can contact our experts.

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300 Social Issues Research Topics to Impress Your Professor and Get A

Researching social issues holds immense importance in our quest for knowledge and progress. It allows us to delve deeper into the complexities of society, unraveling the underlying causes, impacts, and potential solutions. However, the significance of a good research topic must be considered, which sets the stage for a high-scoring and impactful research endeavor. If you have difficulty finding a good social issue research topic, check out these lists from the experts working with a professional  paper writing services  provider.

Table of Contents

Comprehensive list of Unique Social Issue Research Topics

Scroll down and go through our list of unique topics and pick one that sparks your interest. Here you go with the first one: 

Women’s Social Issues Research Topics 

It’s crucial to look into the various aspects of women’s social issues if we want to get a better understanding of gender inequality. Here are some ideas to help you dig deeper into this topic.

• Prejudice against women in corporate culture
• Problems of pregnant women working in the corporate
• Harassment in educational institutes against women
• What strategies can governments adopt to ensure equal rights for women?
• Raising awareness of the problems of pregnant women
• How to develop a respectful attitude towards women and gender minorities in companies?
• Ill-treatment of women in the government sector
• Writing on essay topics related to problems with Syrian female immigrants
• The Role of Women in economic life and the World of Work
• Women’s political and electoral training
• Women in old homes: Research and Interviews for Problems and Concerns
• Toxic Masculinity in the Workplace: what can women do?
• Developing a workplace culture for fair treatment of every gender
• Role of Government in solving problems related to Women
• The economy of the United States: Income inequality in the U.S.
• Building a world where women have equal opportunities and fair treatment
• Essay Topics Related to Problems of Women in New York
• Financial problems for single mothers
• Women dealing with social issues in New Mexico
• Condition of Mexican immigrant women in the United States
• Women’s health: Key performance indicators, problems and obstacles
• Securing Women’s Rights with the Help of international law
• Education of women: The rights and responsibilities
• Better living conditions for older women
• A research study of the problems of pregnant women in California
• Health and welfare of older people, especially women
• Improving the quality of life for single mothers with better opportunities

Children’s Social Issues Research Topics 

It’s important to tackle the social issues that affect kids to create a better, more nurturing future for the next generation. Here are some interesting topics on this subject to get started with  writing your research paper . 

• School Bullying and social networks
• Problems and issues with children with a single parent
• A research study on the problems of children in foster homes
• How can we make foster care better and safer for children?
• Delinquency trends in children among marginalized communities
• modernity and technology at the cost of the destruction of childhood
• Issues that children from Mexican households in America have to face
• What are the advantages of multiculturalism in kindergarten?
• Problems of Assault and Molestation of Children
• Why Are Young People Committing Crimes These Days?
• Cyberbullying and Toxicity on social media
• Violence among children and young people
• Rehabilitation of juvenile offenders and improving their lives
• Illness and disability among kids living in developing countries
• The lack of tolerance among the teenagers
• Child labor in developing countries
• Psychology of kindergarten education
• School is a chance for every kid to learn tolerance and harmony
• Children facing with lack of empathy and bullying on social media
• The use of new technologies in education and adaptability in children
• Problems of immigrant children
• Child development and behavior

Social Issues Research Topics About Labor Rights

It’s essential to look into the social issues surrounding workers’ rights and fight for their well-being. Labor rights are the foundation of having fair and decent working conditions. Here are some topics if you want to research such subjects.

• The legal responsibility of entrepreneurs
• Workplace accident management
• Increased flexibility via remote working options
• Mental health problems caused by workers after the COVID pandemic
• The principle of equality today is related to labor rights
• Change wages or salaries
• Labor problems caused by the Covid pandemic
• Employees having to deal with additional work pressures
• Role of labor unions in social justice for Laborers
• Mental health problems in the Workplace
• What can we do to offer ideas for improvements in labor laws
• The desire to maintain a healthy work-life balance
• Hate speech and domestic violence against marginalized groups in large companies
• Academic paper for immigration disruptions in Canada and USA
• The employer’s right to manage employees and the abuse of it
• Role of human resources in identifying and solving problems of labor
• The job of the government and schools is to offer their members better career prospects
• Problems and issues related to a minimum period of employment
• The technology skills gap leads to problems with the laborers
• Improving the well-being of the company for its members
• Change wages or salaries impact and consequences
• How the global pandemic and Working from home changed the World
• Recruiting methods from passive to active: how to prepare
• Global labor shortages: problems and consequences
• What are the reasons for the labor shortage?
• Writing assignment about laborers dealing with the effects of long Covid
• Why is it essential for companies to take a public stand for social issues
• Mental health problems for workers in the field
• Relevant examples of social issues related to labor and employment
• How to empower workers against social injustice?

Social Issues Research Topics for the Environment

It’s important to dig into how social issues and the environment are connected when we’re trying to handle big problems like climate change, running out of resources, etc. Here are some  research topics  to think about.

• Health risks associated with the general environment and their perception and representation
• Climate change knowledge and expertise on health risks
• Health inequalities resulting from environmental and social factors
• What Role can environmental law play in protecting the environment at sea?
• Deforestation and chronic pollution are destroying biodiversity
• Importance of green energy conversion
• The Law of the Environment and sustainable development
• The Management of Pollution in Environmental Law
• Toward a better understanding of atmospheric pollution
• Utilizing environmental technologies and learning about them
• Waste and material resources of the World
• The destruction of ozone affects the environment and health
• Nature’s resources are being destroyed. What can we do as researchers to prevent this?
• Is it still imperative to preserve the environment during wartime?
• Combating armed conflict while preserving the environment
• The tourism industry and pollution management
• Environmental factors that affect cancer risk
• Cost-benefit analysis of the action based on legal or socioeconomic criteria
• Analyzing how different environmental factors contribute to the risk
• Investigating a variety of environmental issues and sectors
• Regions and specific areas of environmental perception
• The effects of climate change and global warming
• Factors contributing to a healthy environment
• The relationship between human rights and environmental law
• In environmental law, pollution management is a constant
• Worldwide implementation of sustainable development
• How consumption trends and international news can help the environmental cause

Social Issues Research Topics Related to Covid Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed how we live and has spotlighted all kinds of social issues that need to be looked into and solved. So, if you would like to research social issues related to the recent pandemic, check out this list for current social issues for research paper:

• Social panic caused after the COVID-19 breakdown
• Problems and social issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic
• COVID-19 and financial problems on the rise
• Impact of COVID-19 on the people with middle class
• Police Procedure and criminal justice during the COVID-19
• The aftermath of COVID-19 has resulted in a social dilemma and economic disruption
• An influential aspect of the pandemic is mental health
• The Impact of social and territorial inequalities on health
• The ethical issues raised by the pandemic
• Writing research papers on social media’s Role during COVID-19
• Children and adolescents’ mental condition during the pandemic
• Problems in healthcare and Management of chronic diseases
• Disruption in modern society by the COVID-19
• How our social media accounts helped us during the darkest hours of covid
• Ensuring the delivery of criminal justice during covid
• Impact of COVID-19 on family life
• Role of the Pandemic in the Promotion of remote education
• Avoiding social media addiction during the quarantine

Social Issue Topics Related to American Society

Checking out the social problems in the U.S. gives us a great understanding of how complicated, varied and hard they can be for people and different communities. Here is another list of topics on social issues. 

• Environment perception in specific areas and regions
• Climate change and global warming effects
• The factors that contribute to a healthy environment
• Cancer risk factors in the environment
• Workplace toxic masculinity: what can women do?
• The global labor shortage: problems and consequences
• Why does the U.S. have a shortage of labor?
• Workers dealing with the effects of Covid
• Problems related to mental issues among field workers
• Law and human rights concerning the environment
• Management of pollution is a constant concern in environmental law
• Impacts and consequences of changes in wages or salaries
• How to prepare for passive to active recruitment
• The problem of child labor in developing countries
• Kindergarten Education and Psychology
• Tolerance and harmony can be learned in school by every child
• Lack of empathy and bullying on social media among children
• Technology in Education and Children’s Adaptability
• Legal or socioeconomic cost-benefit analysis of the action
• A major social issue in the modern age is poverty
• Government’s Role in solving social problems
• Sustainable Development of the World
• Trafficking in drugs and Mexican cartels
• A culture of fair treatment for all genders in the Workplace
• Nature’s resources are being depleted.
• Management of pollution in the tourism industry
• How can we use social media to improve society and resolve social problems?
• A lack of respect for marginalized communities in the professional environment can be seen in several ways.
• Understanding social issues and the problems associated with them
• Materials and waste from around the World and the Impact they have on the environment
• The depletion of ozone is detrimental to the environment and human health
• Insights into the political and electoral training of women
• Taking a closer look at Women’s Problems and Concerns in old homes: Research and Interviews
• Issues and problems related to the minimum period of employment and the minimum wage
• The technological skills gap is causing labor shortages shortly
• Enhancing the well-being of the members of the company as a whole

Interesting Social Injustice Topics for College Students

As college students, exploring and engaging with interesting social issues topics expands our intellectual horizons and empowers us to become agents of change in our communities and beyond. Particularly when you include social problems examples. Here is another list of interesting topics.

• Developing better relationships with public institutions to solve problems
• The Role of social work in the Management of health problems
• Corporations discriminate against marginalized communities in the U.S.
• Sociology of the popular classes
• The reasons for the low human development index in African countries
• Social issues caused by class differences
• Drugs and anarchist behaviors
• Religious Differences and biased approaches to employment strategies
• Mexican cartels and the problem of drug trafficking
• Poverty is one of the most significant social issues in the Modern World
• Role of the Government in solving social issues
• How can we use social media to improve society and solve social issues?
• Prejudice against marginalized communities in the professional environment
• Understanding the problems related to social issues
• Role of problem-solving and understanding the root cause of social issues
• Major social issues in developing countries
• Role of Education in ending violence in Society
• Class Differences and the Impact on the human development index
• Differences in health facilities for different classes
• Social Norms and the Role of the Community
• Causes and solutions to human trafficking on the Mexican borders
• Human development index in India
• How to solve the poverty problem?
• What is the problem of social media bullying, and how to avoid it?
• How does financial illiteracy lead to a lack of development in developing countries?
• Impact of Terrorism on Society
• How to solve the terrorism problem?
• Mafia problems in the USA and how to deal with them
• Biased treatment of marginalized communities in the government sector
• The increasing problem of drug addiction
• Ethics and Artificial Intelligence: Emerging social issues
• Role of social media in increasing social issues

Police and Social Justice Research Papers Topics

Let’s unveil a curated collection of current social issues for a research paper. Here’s the list:

• Children’s safety and protection: The security job is of the utmost importance
• School bullying is a serious issue that needs to be addressed
• A few heartrending social issues examples 
• Using the Internet to disseminate terrorist content: a serious issue related to Cybersecurity
• Digital Platform Security Certification – A Guide to Cybersecurity Certifications
• The protection of minors in alcohol-serving establishments
• Concerns regarding cyber security in the United States
• An analysis of the spatial pattern of terrorism in the USA over the past two decades
• New York crime analysis, a look at the crime situation in the City
• Security technologies face several obstacles when it comes to their implementation
• Having the versatility to specialize and the specialization to be versatile in security matters
• Investigative requisitions from the judicial police
• Relationships between the police and the public: The need for improvement
• Conflict Management and Prevention in Communities
• The principle of secularism in sports must be respected
• Stopping the illicit trade in tobacco products
• Towns with small populations and cybersecurity
• Taking care of historical monuments
• Providing support to victims of aggression
• An analysis of the roadside check system in developing countries
• The challenges of reception at a police station for public security
• A system for protecting housing from illegal encroachment
• Anti-abuse and anti-fraud measures
• A diversity of expectations and feedback from the inhabitants
• Taking public security work seriously in terms of its relational dimension
• The issue of external assistance in the area of internal security
• Putting social networks to the test in terms of police ethics

As you have reached the conclusion paragraph of the blog post, you must have picked a topic or two to work for your social issue research paper. Most of the lists have focused on social issues today as they could be very interesting for the readers. Plus, there are a plethora of good topics for you to count on. Just remember that a good research subject must be able to answer, what is a social problem, what is a social issue, and more. Still if you are struggling with picking up a good topic, feel free to count on the expertise of  our writers .

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• A Research Guide
• Research Paper Topics

40 Social Issues Research Paper Topics

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List of 40 Social Issues Topics for College Students

• Religious gatherings and rituals
• Country-wide strikes and protest
• LGBTQ+ prides
• Worldwide flashmobs
• Social stratification
• Gender discrimination and anti-harassment movements
• The issues of orphanage kids
• Pornography and AI sex dolls
• Sex work or paid rape?
• Virtual reality
• Information overload: the society is overstressed with the amount of data
• Demographic crisis
• Beauty standards
• Social isolation of people with HIV/AIDS
• The fight against animal testing
• Internet safety
• Humanitarian missions
• Fighting racism
• The rights of ethnic minorities and native people
• Internet safety and cybercrimes
• The necessity of the death penalty
• Fighting poverty in the world
• Access to the drinking water in third world countries
• Free education for everyone: shall it be implemented?
• National identity versus globalization
• Women rights and trans people rights
• Obesity as an obstacle in social life. Fatshaming
• Civil rights: shall they be expanded?
• Abuse and neglect in asylums, orphanages, and care homes
• Church and state: shall they remain separate?
• The problem of bigotry in modern society
• Immigration and resocialization of the immigrants
• Sustainable consumption on a worldwide scale
• School violence
• Legalizing drugs: basic rights to choose or a danger to society?
• Social isolation. The hikikomori phenomenon
• Bullying at schools and colleges
• Kids transitioning: shall it be allowed?
• Advertisements: are they becoming too powerful?
• The global impact of the third world countries

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189+ Best Social Science Research Paper Topics For Students

• Post author By Pooja Barman
• October 23, 2023

Social Science Research Paper Topics can be intriguing, insightful, and engaging, offering students an opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects that impact our society. Are you looking for the most interesting and good topics for a sociology research paper?

If yes, in this article, we will explore what Social Science Research Paper Topics are, provide guidance on how to choose and find them, and discuss why they are beneficial for students.

Additionally, we’ll present a comprehensive list of research paper topics across various social science fields.

Must Read: 125+ Most Creative Art Therapy Projects For Seniors

Table of Contents

What Are Social Science Research Paper Topics

Social Science Research Paper Topics are subjects, questions, or themes within the realm of social sciences that students investigate and write about in research papers. These topics cover a broad spectrum of disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, and more.

They aim to shed light on various aspects of human behavior, society, and culture, offering valuable insights and understanding.

How to Choose and Find Social Science Research Paper Topics

Selecting an engaging and relevant social science research paper topic is crucial for a successful paper. Here are some tips on how to choose and find the right topic:

1. Identify Your Interests

Start by considering your personal interests within the social sciences. What subjects or issues captivate your attention? Choosing a topic you’re passionate about will make the research and writing process more enjoyable.

2. Review Course Material

Reflect on what you’ve learned in your social science courses. Often, your coursework can spark ideas for research topics based on your studies and readings.

3. Current Events and Trends

Stay informed about current events and societal trends. These can provide inspiration for research topics that are both timely and relevant.

4. Consult with Professors

Seek guidance from your professors or advisors. They can offer suggestions and help refine your topic ideas.

5. Consider Feasibility

Ensure that your chosen topic is manageable within the scope of your assignment. You should be able to find sufficient research material and complete the project within the given timeframe.

6. Narrow or Broaden Your Focus

Depending on the assignment’s length and requirements, you may need to narrow down a broad topic or expand on a more specific aspect of a larger subject.

Now, let’s dive into a comprehensive list of Social Science Research Paper Topics across various fields:

Sociology Research Paper Topics

• Income Inequality and Social Mobility
• The Impact of Immigration on Host Societies
• Gender Roles and Stereotypes in Society
• Social Isolation in the Digital Age
• Social Media’s Influence on Political Movements
• Social Media and Self-esteem: Impacts on Mental Health
• Gun Control Policies and Their Effects on Society
• The Sociology of Protests and Social Movements
• The Role of Religion in Social Cohesion
• Cultural Appropriation and Its Social Implications

Psychology Research Paper Topics

• The Psychology of Resilience in Adversity
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
• Effects of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
• Cross-Cultural Differences in Psychological Disorders
• The Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination
• Positive Psychology and Well-being
• The Impact of Technology on Cognitive Abilities
• Child Development and Attachment Theory
• The Psychology of Prejudice in Online Communities
• Understanding and Addressing Teenage Depression

Anthropology Research Paper Topics

• Cultural Relativism and Ethical Dilemmas
• Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainability
• Human-Environment Interactions in Archaeology
• Anthropological Perspectives on Global Health
• Cultural Change and Adaptation in the Modern World
• Urban Anthropology and the Study of City Life
• Ethical Dilemmas in Anthropological Research
• Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainable Agriculture
• Anthropology of Food and Cultural Significance
• Archaeological Methods and Discoveries

Economics Research Paper Topics

• The Economic Impact of Natural Disasters
• Minimum Wage Policies and Their Consequences
• Behavioral Economics and Consumer Decision-Making
• The Gig Economy and Labor Market Trends
• The Economics of Healthcare and Insurance
• Global Economic Recession: Causes and Impacts
• Economic Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic
• Economic Inequality and Social Unrest
• Behavioral Economics and Decision-Making in Investment

Political Science Research Paper Topics

• International Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution
• Political Polarization and Its Effects on Governance
• Comparative Analysis of Political Systems
• Global Governance and International Organizations
• Political Propaganda and Media Manipulation
• Women in Politics: Representation and Challenges
• Political Extremism and Counterterrorism Policies
• The Role of Soft Power in International Relations
• Political Populism and Its Rise in Contemporary Politics
• Environmental Policies and Political Will

Social Science Education Research Paper Topics

• Inclusive Education and Special Needs Programs
• Homeschooling: Trends and Outcomes
• The Impact of Standardized Testing on Students
• Teacher Training and Professional Development
• Education Funding and Equity
• The Impact of Technology in Classroom Learning
• Education and Socioeconomic Achievement Gap
• Teacher-Student Relationships and Academic Performance
• School Bullying Prevention and Interventions

Environmental Social Science Research Paper Topics

• Urbanization and Urban Planning for Sustainability
• The Role of Wetlands in Ecosystem Health
• Environmental Ethics and Conservation
• Environmental Justice and Marginalized Communities
• Renewable Energy Policies and Implementation
• Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Practices
• Soil Erosion and Agricultural Sustainability
• Wildlife Conservation and Biodiversity Preservation
• Environmental Education and its Role in Society
• Sustainable Urban Planning and Green Cities

History-Social Science Research Paper Topics

• The Historical Roots of Colonialism
• Decolonization Movements in the 20th Century
• The Impact of the Cold War on Global Politics
• Historical Perspectives on Women’s Rights
• The Cultural Significance of Historical Artifacts
• The Impact of the Renaissance on Art and Culture
• Historical Perspectives on the American Civil Rights Movement
• The Decline of Ancient Civilizations: Causes and Lessons
• Historical Analysis of Ancient Trade Routes
• Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Peoples

Social Work Research Paper Topics

• Social Work in Crisis Intervention and Trauma Counseling
• Substance Abuse Treatment in Vulnerable Populations
• Child Protective Services and Family Welfare
• The Role of Social Workers in Healthcare
• Human Rights and Social Justice Advocacy
• Trauma-Informed Social Work Practice
• Homelessness and Social Services Interventions
• Social Work in Correctional Facilities
• Child Welfare and Family Reunification
• Human Rights and Advocacy in Social Work

Communication Research Paper Topics

• Crisis Communication in the Social Media Age
• The Impact of Fake News on Public Perception
• Visual Communication and its Influence
• Cross-Cultural Communication Challenges
• The Rhetoric of Political Speeches
• Digital Media and the Future of Journalism
• Intercultural Communication in a Globalized World
• Communication Technology and its Impact on Relationships
• Visual Communication and its Persuasive Power
• The Art of Public Speaking and Rhetoric

Criminology Research Paper Topics

• Cybersecurity and the Role of Law Enforcement
• Criminal Behavior and Psychological Profiles
• Recidivism and Rehabilitation Programs
• White-Collar Crime and Corporate Responsibility
• Policing Strategies and Community Relations
• Juvenile Justice and Rehabilitation Programs
• Cybersecurity and Law Enforcement Challenges
• Criminal Profiling and Offender Characteristics
• Hate Crimes and their Motivations
• The Effectiveness of Restorative Justice Programs

Gender Studies Research Paper Topics

• Toxic Masculinity in Popular Culture
• The Impact of #MeToo Movement
• Intersections of Gender and Race
• Transgender Rights and Healthcare Access
• The Influence of Gender in Language and Media
• Women’s Reproductive Rights and Policies
• Men’s Mental Health and Societal Expectations
• Gendered Violence and Prevention Strategies
• Gender Roles in Fairy Tales and Popular Culture
• The Role of Gender in Language and Linguistics

Social Policy Research Paper Topics

• Drug Policy and Harm Reduction Strategies
• Universal Basic Income and Poverty Alleviation
• Maternity and Paternity Leave Policies
• Aging Population and Social Security
• Immigration and Asylum Policies
• Universal Basic Income and Economic Equality
• Housing Policies and Affordable Housing Initiatives
• Youth and Social Services Programs
• Immigration and Family Reunification Policies
• Disability Rights and Social Inclusion

Health Science Research Paper Topics

• Healthcare Disparities in Underserved Communities
• Nutrition and Public Health Interventions
• The Opioid Epidemic and Prescription Drug Abuse
• Mental Health Services in Rural Areas
• Aging and Long-Term Care Services
• Mental Health Stigma in Healthcare
• The Impact of Social Determinants on Health Disparities
• Healthcare Access and Rural Communities
• Health Communication in Public Health Campaigns
• Healthcare Systems in Developing Countries

Family Studies Research Paper Topics

• The Impact of Divorce Mediation on Children
• Foster Care and Adoption Policies
• Sibling Relationships and Birth Order Effects
• Interethnic and Intercultural Marriages
• The Role of Grandparents in Child-Rearing
• The Effect of Divorce on Sibling Relationships
• Parental Involvement and Child Development
• Foster Care and Child Welfare Reforms
• Domestic Violence and Support Services
• Aging Parents and Caregiver Stress

Globalization and Development Research Paper Topics

• The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
• Humanitarian Aid and International Crisis Response
• Cultural Exchange Programs and Diplomacy
• Global Supply Chain and Labor Conditions
• Sustainable Tourism and Cultural Preservation
• The Role of Multinational Corporations in Developing Economies
• Indigenous Rights and Sustainable Development
• Microfinance and Poverty Alleviation
• Fair Trade and Ethical Consumerism
• Global Health Partnerships and Disease Prevention

Social Justice Research Paper Topics

• Environmental Racism and its Implications
• Disability Rights and Inclusion
• LGBTQ+ Refugees and Asylum Seekers
• Juvenile Justice and Restorative Practices
• Mass Incarceration and Prison Reform
• LGBTQ+ Rights and Global Advocacy
• Refugee Rights and Resettlement Challenges
• Disability Rights and Access to Healthcare
• Criminal Justice Reform and Social Equity
• Indigenous Land Rights and Environmental Justice

Sociology of Religion Research Paper Topics

• Religious Fundamentalism in Contemporary Society
• Religion and Healthcare Decision-Making
• Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding
• Cults and Their Social Impact
• Religion and Ethics in Bioengineering
• Religious Pluralism and Interfaith Dialogue
• Religious Radicalism and Terrorism
• Religion’s Influence on Political Policies
• The Role of Religion in Environmental Ethics
• Secularism and Non-religious Worldviews

Social Impact of Technology Research Paper Topics

• Online Privacy and Digital Surveillance
• Artificial Intelligence and Its Ethical Challenges
• E-Government and Online Civic Engagement
• Social Media Activism and Its Limitations
• Technology and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence
• The Digital Divide and Technological Inequities
• Social Media Activism and Online Movements
• Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Concerns
• Virtual Reality and Its Applications in Education

Social Movements and Activism Research Paper Topics

• Black Panther Party and its Legacy
• Disability Rights Movements
• Global Youth Activism and Climate Change
• The Arab Spring and Political Change
• Indigenous Rights Movements in Latin America
• Youth-Led Movements and Their Impact on Social Change
• Women’s Suffrage and the Fight for Voting Rights
• Environmental Activism and Conservation Efforts
• Indigenous Rights Movements in Asia

Why Social Science Research Paper Topics Are Beneficial for Students

Social Science Research Paper Topics offer several advantages for students:

• Critical Thinking : Researching and writing about social science topics fosters critical thinking skills. It encourages students to analyze, interpret, and evaluate information and arguments.
• Understanding Society : Social science research topics help students better understand the complexities of human society, culture, and behavior.
• Research Skills : Students develop valuable research skills, including finding and assessing sources, conducting surveys or interviews, and drawing meaningful conclusions.
• Communication Skills : Writing research papers hones students’ communication skills, including the ability to express complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Awareness of Social Issues : Exploring social science topics can raise awareness of pressing social issues and encourage students to engage with them more deeply.
• Preparation for Future Careers : Many careers in fields like sociology, psychology, and political science require strong research and analytical skills. Engaging in social science research prepares students for these roles.

Social Science Research Paper Topics provide students with an opportunity to explore, analyze, and contribute to our understanding of human society and its complexities. By following the guidance on selecting topics and recognizing their benefits, students can embark on research projects that are not only academically fulfilling but also socially relevant and impactful.

Whether you choose a topic from sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, or any other social science field. With this extensive list of Social Science Research Paper Topics, students have a wide range of subjects to choose from, spanning sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, and more.

These topics offer an opportunity to delve into critical societal issues, analyze their implications, and contribute to a deeper understanding of human behavior and society’s complexities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an example of a social science research question.

What are the sources of social inequality, and how does it relate to political institutions and social structures?

How do you write a good social science research paper?

The information should be detailed enough for someone to replicate the study, but it should also be concise.

What is social science research essay?

Social Science Research is the activity of gathering, analysing and interpreting information for a variety of social, economic, educational and political purposes.

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Social Issues Topics: Exploring the Challenges Shaping Our World

Did you know that social issues are not just distant problems affecting others? They are deeply intertwined with our lives and have a profound impact on our daily experiences, shaping the very fabric of our society. From systemic inequality to environmental degradation, these issues have the power to shape the course of history and determine the well-being of generations to come. Get ready to dive into the fascinating realm of social issues topics! In this article, we'll explore their complexities, understand why they matter, learn how to write compelling essays about them and discover a captivating list of the most important social issues examples of our time. This thought-provoking journey will challenge our beliefs and inspire us to take meaningful action for a better future. So, let's dive in and get started!

What Are Social Issues

Social issues are the threads that intricately weave through the fabric of our society, demanding our attention, empathy, and action. They are the challenges and complexities that affect individuals, communities, and even entire nations, often leaving a profound impact on people's lives. These issues stem from the interconnectedness of our world, where various factors like politics, economics, culture, and individual experiences intersect, creating a tapestry of social problems that need to be addressed.

Social issues encompass a wide range of concerns, encompassing everything from poverty and inequality to gender discrimination, environmental degradation, and access to healthcare and education. They represent the barriers that prevent individuals from thriving, the disparities that hinder progress, and the injustices that undermine equality and human rights.

Take poverty, for example. It is not merely a lack of financial resources; it is a pervasive condition that robs individuals of their dignity, opportunities, and hope for a better future. Poverty intertwines with education, as limited access to quality education perpetuates the cycle of disadvantage. It intersects with healthcare, as inadequate medical services disproportionately affect the most vulnerable members of society. And it connects with inequality as wealth disparities widen and prevents social mobility.

As per our essay writing service , to address social issues today, it is crucial to recognize that they are not isolated problems. They are intertwined and interdependent, requiring holistic solutions that encompass multiple dimensions. It takes collective efforts from individuals, communities, governments, and organizations to foster change. Raising awareness, advocating for policy reforms, and promoting equality are essential steps toward ensuring that marginalized groups benefit and creating a more just and equitable society.

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Understanding the Importance of Social Issues in Today's World

Social issues are not abstract concepts confined to textbooks or news headlines. They are pressing challenges that affect real people and demand our attention. By actively engaging with these issues, we have the opportunity to shape a more equitable and compassionate world for ourselves and future generations.

The importance of social issues in developing countries lies in their impact on human rights, well-being, and social progress. By addressing these issues, we strive to build inclusive societies where everyone has equal opportunities and can live a dignified life. It is not only a matter of justice and compassion but also essential for sustainable development and peaceful coexistence.

Moreover, social issues highlight the power of collective action and advocacy. They remind us that we have a shared responsibility to stand up for what is right and work towards positive change. Thanks to the advancements in technology and communication, it is now easier than ever to raise awareness, mobilize communities, and bring about transformative social movements. Social media platforms have become powerful tools for amplifying marginalized voices and shedding light on systemic injustices.

How to Write an Essay About Social Issues

So you've got an assignment on social issues essay topics, huh? Don't worry; we've got your back! Writing about social issues may seem like a tough nut to crack, but trust us; it's a crucial part of academic writing. Social issues are basically problems that affect a whole bunch of people in society. We're talking about everything from politics and economics to education and health and so much more. But hey, no need to stress! Our custom writing experts are here to give you some awesome tips to help you rock that essay and make it super interesting. Let's dive in, shall we?

Choose Your Topic Wisely

Let's begin by taking the first step, my friend! It's all about choosing a topic for research papers that resonates with your heart and feels like a natural fit for your mind. When you opt for a subject that genuinely sparks your personal interest, the research and essay writing process, complete with the proper format of academic paper , will become a delightful adventure.

Engage in brainstorming sessions to generate ideas and conduct thorough investigations to gather factual information. Now, here's a nifty trick: if the chosen issue seems a bit overwhelming with its multiple dimensions, no worries! Just narrow down your focus to a specific aspect. For example, if you're tackling poverty, you can zoom in on the causes, the consequences, or even strategies to alleviate it. The world is your oyster, so let's get cracking!

Support Your Opinion with Examples

When you're writing a research paper about examples of social issues, it's really important to include research and data that support your position. This helps the reader understand why your perspective is necessary and what evidence you have to back it up. For instance, if you're discussing the impact of poverty, you can provide statistics on the number of people in need, how poverty and health problems affect education, and the connection between poverty and crime. Including these kinds of details, just like in economics essay topics , will make your essay more persuasive and engaging.

Keep It Simple

Ensuring your essay is simple and easy to understand is crucial. Instead of using complex words, opt for simpler alternatives that convey the same meaning effectively. By keeping your essay readable, you make it more engaging and easier for the reader to follow. Avoid employing jargon or technical terms that might confuse your audience. Instead, use plain language and take the time to explain any intricate terms or concepts, making the essay accessible to all readers. Following these guidelines on how to write an essay on social issues will help you effectively communicate your ideas and engage your audience.

Revise and Edit

Before you submit your essay, it's important to take a few steps to ensure its quality. Start by checking its structure, making sure it flows smoothly and logically. Verify that your arguments are well-supported and presented in a cohesive manner. Give your essay a thorough review to catch any spelling or grammar mistakes. Additionally, pay attention to formatting, ensuring consistency throughout the entire piece. It can be beneficial to have someone else read your essay and provide feedback as well. Taking these precautions will help you present polished and well-crafted topics for essays .

Social Issues Essay Example

For students seeking a practical example of a well-structured and insightful social issues essay, the pursuit of global citizenship stands as a compelling topic to explore. Through this example, you can gain inspiration and guidance for your own social issues essays, understanding how to construct a compelling argument and convey the importance of promoting positive change in society.

5 Social Issues of Today

Today's society is facing a multitude of social issues that have a significant impact on people's lives. Here is a list of some of the most pressing social issues that affect people worldwide:

• Climate change and global warming : The effects of climate change are already being felt around the world, with rising sea levels, more frequent natural disasters, and changes in weather patterns. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and other human activities are contributing to this issue, and it is essential that we take action to reduce our carbon footprint.
• Income inequality : The gap between the rich and the poor is widening, with the wealthiest 1% of the world's population owning more than half of the world's wealth. This inequality can lead to social unrest, and it is important that we address this issue by promoting fair wages, progressive taxation, and other policies that support economic equality.
• War : Armed conflicts continue to plague different regions around the world, resulting in significant humanitarian crises. Wars not only cause immense suffering, displacement, and loss of life but also have far-reaching consequences on infrastructure, economies, and social stability.
• Gender equality : Despite progress in recent years, gender inequality remains a significant issue in many parts of the world. Women still face discrimination in the workplace, unequal pay, and limited access to education and healthcare. It is crucial that we continue to work towards gender equality and empower women to achieve their full potential.
• Mental health issues and addiction : Mental health issues and addiction are becoming increasingly prevalent in today's society, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. The stigma surrounding mental health can prevent people from seeking help, and it is important that we raise awareness and provide access to affordable and effective treatment options.

Social Issues Essay Topics

Are you feeling stuck while searching for fascinating subjects or a comprehensive list of social issues that can also serve as perfect dissertation topics ? We understand the challenge you're facing, but don't worry! Selecting the right topic is crucial for crafting an exceptional essay and earning your degree from a reputable American college or university. To ignite your creativity, we've compiled a comprehensive list of captivating social issues for you to explore. Get ready to dive in and discover that perfect idea for your next academic project!

👀 Interesting Social Issues Essay Topics

• Income inequality and its impact on modern society.
• The role of social media in shaping public opinion and activism.
• Mental health stigma and its effects on individuals and communities.
• The challenges faced by refugees and their integration into new societies.
• The impact of technology on interpersonal relationships.
• Gender inequality and the fight for gender equity.
• The effects of climate change on vulnerable communities.
• The basic ethical principles of genetic engineering and human enhancement.
• The impact of globalization on cultural identity.
• The role of education in reducing poverty and social inequality.
• The criminal justice system and its approach to rehabilitation versus punishment.
• The implications of automation and artificial intelligence on employment.
• The impact of media portrayal on body image and self-esteem.
• The effects of racial discrimination and strategies for achieving racial equality.
• The challenges and opportunities of multiculturalism in contemporary society.

🎲 Peace and War Topics

• Causes and origins of the Russia-Ukraine war: Explore the underlying factors that led to the outbreak of the conflict, such as historical, political, and ethnic tensions.
• International response to the Russia-Ukraine war: Analyze the reactions and actions taken by various countries, regional organizations, and global institutions in response to the conflict.
• The conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the challenge of achieving lasting peace.
• The Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan: Historical context, current status, and potential solutions.
• The ongoing tensions in the Korean Peninsula: Assessing the prospects for peace and denuclearization.
• The Syrian Civil War and its Regional and global implications.
• The Israel-Palestine conflict: Historical background, current dynamics, and prospects for peace.
• The war in Afghanistan: Challenges, consequences, and prospects for stability.
• The conflict in South Sudan and the impact on regional security.
• The war on terror: Assessing the effectiveness of counterterrorism strategies and the implications for civil liberties.

🔬 Social Science Topics

• The impact of microaggressions on marginalized communities and its implications for mental health.
• Exploring the social and cultural factors that influence body image dissatisfaction among different ethnic groups.
• The role of social capital in fostering community resilience and disaster preparedness.
• Investigating the relationship between cultural heritage preservation and sustainable development.
• Analyzing the influence of social networks on political participation and civic engagement.
• Exploring the social implications of virtual reality technology on empathy and perspective-taking.
• Investigating the role of humor and laughter in social interactions and psychological well-being.
• Analyzing the effects of eco-anxiety on environmental attitudes and behavior.
• The impact of social media accounts activism on social movements and policy change.
• Exploring the cultural and societal implications of the sharing economy and collaborative consumption.

🏙 Migration and Immigration Topics

• The experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ migrants and refugees.
• Analyzing the role of migrant remittances in economic development and poverty reduction in sending countries.
• Exploring the impact of immigration policies on family dynamics and the well-being of immigrant families.
• Investigating the role of social networks in facilitating successful integration of immigrants into host societies.
• The effects of climate change-induced migration and its implications for global governance and social justice.
• Analyzing the influence of cultural identity preservation among second-generation immigrants.
• The impact of labor migration on gender roles and dynamics within migrant communities.
• Exploring the role of language acquisition and proficiency in the social integration of immigrants.
• Investigating the intersections of migration, health, and access to healthcare services.
• Analyzing the economic, social, and cultural contributions of immigrant entrepreneurs to host countries.

🌳 Environmental Social Issues Essay Topics

• The intersection of environmental justice and social equity: Analyzing the disproportionate impacts of environmental degradation on marginalized communities.
• The role of indigenous knowledge and practices in sustainable resource management.
• The impact of consumerism and overconsumption on the environment and social well-being.
• Exploring the social and economic implications of climate-induced migration and displacement.
• The influence of environmental education and awareness on individual and collective environmental behaviors.
• Analyzing the relationship between environmental degradation and public health, focusing on air and water pollution.
• The role of corporate social responsibility in promoting environmental sustainability and addressing social concerns.
• Investigating the social implications of plastic waste and exploring strategies for reducing single-use plastics.
• The impact of urbanization on ecosystems and the social well-being of urban communities.
• Analyzing the social dimensions of renewable energy transitions and the equitable distribution of benefits.

💖 LGBT Topic Ideas

• The historical evolution of LGBT rights movements: From Stonewall to present-day advocacy.
• Exploring the experiences and challenges faced by transgender individuals in healthcare systems.
• Analyzing the representation of LGBT characters in media and its impact on social perceptions.
• The intersectionality of race, gender, and sexuality in the LGBT community.
• Investigating the effects of conversion therapy on the mental health and well-being of LGBT individuals.
• Exploring the experiences of LGBT youth in educational settings and the impact of supportive environments.
• The role of LGBT support organizations and community centers in fostering social inclusion and well-being.
• Analyzing the impact of religious beliefs and attitudes on the acceptance of same-sex marriage.
• Exploring the experiences and challenges of older LGBT adults and the importance of inclusive care and support systems.
• The impact of policies and legislation on LGBT rights and equality, both nationally and internationally.

🏛 Social Justice Essay Topics

• Exploring the concept of reparations for historical injustices and its role in achieving social justice.
• The impact of language and communication barriers on access to justice for marginalized communities.
• Analyzing the social justice implications of algorithmic bias in artificial intelligence systems.
• Examining the role of art and creative expression in advancing social justice movements.
• The intersection of disability rights and social justice: Challenges and advancements.
• Exploring the impact of gentrification on communities and strategies for promoting equitable development.
• Analyzing the role of restorative justice in addressing harm within educational institutions.
• The impact of colonialism on indigenous communities and the pursuit of social justice.
• The role of community organizing in promoting grassroots social justice initiatives.
• Examining the social justice implications of mass incarceration and advocating for criminal justice reform.

🔗 Discrimination and Prejudice Topics

• The effects of racial profiling on marginalized communities and its implications for social justice.
• Analyzing the psychological mechanisms underlying implicit bias and its impact on decision-making processes.
• The intersectionality of discrimination: Exploring how multiple forms of discrimination (race, gender, sexuality, etc.) intersect and compound.
• Discrimination and prejudice in the workplace: Examining challenges and strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion.
• Exploring the effects of religious discrimination on individuals and communities.
• The impact of ageism on older adults and strategies for combating age-related discrimination.
• Analyzing the social and psychological consequences of fat shaming and weight-based discrimination.
• Discrimination against individuals with disabilities and the importance of accessibility and inclusive practices.
• The role of the media in perpetuating stereotypes and its influence on discrimination.
• Examining the effects of prejudice and discrimination on mental health and well-being.

🔪 Violence Topics 

• The role of violence in sports: Examining the impact of aggression and its consequences in athletic competitions.
• Violence against healthcare workers: Analyzing the prevalence, causes, and strategies for ensuring safety in healthcare settings.
• The impact of violence on refugee and displaced populations: Exploring the challenges and interventions for addressing violence in these contexts.
• Violence in the digital realm: Investigating online harassment, cyberbullying, and the psychological effects on victims.
• The relationship between animal cruelty and violence towards humans: Exploring the link and implications for social well-being.
• The effects of violence in video games: Analyzing the debate and research surrounding its potential influence on real-life aggression.
• The role of violence in hazing rituals and initiation ceremonies: Understanding the dynamics and potential harm caused.
• Exploring violence in marginalized communities: Addressing the underlying factors and strategies for promoting community safety.
• Silent Suffering: Unmasking the Reality of Domestic Violence
• Violence in the workplace: Examining the impact of bullying, harassment, and assault on employees and organizational well-being.

👩‍🦯 Humanity Topics

• The power of empathy and compassion in fostering understanding and social harmony.
• Exploring the ethics of artificial intelligence and its impact on human dignity and autonomy.
• The role of forgiveness in healing personal and societal wounds.
• Analyzing the concept of human rights and its universality across different cultures and contexts.
• The pursuit of global citizenship and its potential for promoting peace and cooperation.
• Exploring the intersection of technology and humanity: Examining the benefits and challenges of the digital age.
• The impact of cultural diversity on societal progress and innovation.
• Analyzing the concept of altruism and its role in creating a more compassionate world.
• The importance of intergenerational connections and the wisdom of older generations in shaping our future.
• Examining the concept of identity and the balance between individuality and collective belonging.

Wrapping Up

Social issues are like a cosmic web, connecting countless lives worldwide. This article has been your guide, exploring their intricacies and significance while equipping you to create a powerful social issues essay. Remember, every essay has the power to inspire change.

And here's a little nugget of wisdom: some of the most remarkable social movements in history were sparked by a single person's words on paper. Yes, you heard that right! So, my friend, now you know how to start an essay , so get ready to unleash the power of your pen and leave your mark on the world. Together, we can be the catalysts for a brighter tomorrow!

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Order your eye-opening social issue essay now and ignite a revolution!

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149 Social Issues Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best social issues topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good essay topics on social issues, ⭐ simple & easy social issues essay titles, 💡 interesting topics to write about social issues, ❓ social issues questions examples.

• Youth Unemployment as a Social Issue Different factors have led to the high levels of youth unemployment, with the most widely studied of them being the skills that are available to the unemployed youths.
• Social Issues: Choosing a Life Partner This process involves the identification of a friend to determine if potential partners share some aspects in life before the friendship can grow to a relationship and if the relationship works for the partners, it […] We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
• Social Issues in “Gattaca” by Andrew Niccoland In the movie, another family rivalry is witnessed in the case where Vincent was the main suspect in the killing of an administrator; and when Anton offered to help, Vincent asked him to stay away […]
• Social Issues Affecting Women Women and family Stability/Disintegration The role of women in family stability and disintegration is another social issue affecting women in society. Women are considered as the core managers of stability and security in the family.
• Social Issues in “Frankenstein” Film Frankenstein’s monster represents the mangled and depressed soldiers returning from the war only to find an economy in crisis, given that the Great Depression was in the offing after the war.
• Social Issues in the “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” by Tennessee William The struggle is betwixt his great affection for his boy and his finding the facts, and the mindset of his miserable upbringing by which the dad was normally a removed and an unreachable figure.
• Social Issues in the Film “Grease” In the first instance, when Danny and Sandy meet for the first time in the school, Danny is compelled to play the bad boy character the group is identified with.
• Anthropology in Solving Global Social Issues Artists were moving in the same direction, which excluded the possibility to understand and assess other examples of the art of other nations.
• Social Issues in Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of Othello” The social environment of England at the end of the sixteenth and the beginning of the seventeenth century was characterized by great attention to social class, citizens’ jobs, and their reputation.
• What Defines Us as Human? – Social Issues Although the particular features of the people’s skeletal structure and other physical qualities cannot be discussed as determining to speak about persons as human, it is important to focus on differences in the mental and […]
• Social Issues of Families in Poverty With the tightened budget, parents of the families living in poverty struggle to make ends meet, and in the course of their struggles, they experience many stresses and depressions.
• Social Issues: Leisure Lifestyle Erickson confirmed through research that leisure activities originate from the mind, and an individual is motivated to engage in it whenever he or she feels that it would be beneficial.
• Social Issues in the “Thelma and Louise” Movie The film focuses on the scenes and events that show the experience of females. In other words, “Thelma and Louise” ruined the stereotypical representation of women, which was revolutionary for that time.
• Social Issues: Charitable Donations These factors include awareness of the need to contribute, solicitation, selflessness, cost of the benefit, status in the society, and personal values.
• Social Issues in “Be Right Back” Episode of “Black Mirror” Series In one of the scenes of the episodes, in her conversation with the copy of Ash, she says that the android does not have a history of its life; it is just an image without […]
• Philosophy and Perspective of Social Issues In addition, the critical thinking method can also be used to analyze the belief that the government is the cause of social issues. Philosophy is a discipline that can help us to think more critically […]
• Social Issues in Business I see housing as business and as quoted “business involves the exchange of services for money, making money, and dealing with other people’s needs and demands” in the book ‘A better way to think about […]
• Moral, Ethical, and Social Issues However, the spectrum of their research is fundamentally different, and in the case of the Press, it concerns dirty work and society’s response to it.
• Social Issues in “Born into Brothels” Film It is possible to apply the feminist theory to consider a family featured in the film. In Shanti’s family, this is also the case, and her mother is afraid of her daughter’s future as the […]
• Social Issues: Freak Shows The shows gave audiences something they craved, and the audiences gladly paid the organizers for putting up the shows. The second reason for the popularity of freak shows is the financial returns associated with the […]
• Marriage and Family Problems as Social Issues Sociology as a discipline has an extremely wide range of interests and it is next to impossible even to enumerate them, however the issue that has always been of the utmost importance for the sociological […]
• Identity and Social Class Issue A social class provides the child with a sense of identity, a set of values, and the motivational base for his later actions, while the school provides him with the knowledge and skills necessary to […]
• Homelessness as a Social Issue Research further indicates that the group is at a high risk of suffering from addiction in an effort to contain stress and ignominy associated with homelessness.
• Social Issues: Monogamy in Our Life This sort of relations is considered to be the only legal type of bond in the majority of states all over the world.
• Social Issues: Arranged Marriages Even though research has shown that some arranged marriages result in loving and stable relationships, I think it is important to give individuals the freedom to choose their partners and decide whether they are prepared […]
• Education Establishments’ Role Regarding Social Issues However, the universal nature of these issues and their broad influence create an environment in which members of education establishments begin to question the extent of their involvement in them.
• Social Issues in First-World Nations The third social issue that affects a large number of first-world countries is the quality and accessibility of healthcare. However, it is possible to make a gradual positive change through the cooperation of governments and […]
• Social Issues Related to Detroit’s Demographics: The Urban Crisis This refutes the widespread knowledge that suggests racial divides and social initiatives in the 1960s were the cause of the urban decline.
• Journal Editors’ Role Regarding Social Justice Issues Journal editors can involve professionals from social justice forums such as civil rights lawyers in their journals as well as reduce the complexity of the presentation of social justice article contents.
• Social Issue Analysis: The Trauma Lens of Police Violence It is the most visible manifestation of the struggle for justice, and the police are usually expected to support the victims of injustice.
• The Impact of Social Issues on the Development of Adolescence For example, boys have high esteem when they experience changes in their voices, while girls may feel shy due to the growth of their chest region.
• Tobacco as a Social Injustice Issue African Americans are a minority population in the U.S.singled out to endure the health challenges related to tobacco use hence a social injustice.
• Ageism and Financial Insecurity as Social Issues The two main social issues impacting the rights of older individuals are ageism and financial insecurity. Many older people are capable and eager to work beyond the standard set, but the chances are limited.
• The Review of Social Issues Film One of the most important concerns for my future life is the ability to raise and care for children properly. The issue of elderly domestic abuse is considered to be one of the most serious […]
• Race as a Social Construct: Issues of Barriers Since it occurs in the conditions of scarcity of resources essential for the survival of citizens, the varying degree of access to them can be determined on the basis of racial background.
• Social Issues in the “In Plain Sight” Art Project The artists from the In Plain Sight project are united by the goal of raising public awareness about causes such as immigrant detention and the US culture of incarceration.
• Immigration: Social Issue Feeling Analysis From the global perspective, the most influencing countries in the world use visa and other conditions of entering the country as a migration regulating tool.
• International Social Welfare Issue Analysis That is why it is very important for social workers and all socially conscious people to promote the ideas of social welfare and make people understand why it matters. To conclude, the issue of social […]
• Modern Healthcare Aspects in the United States: Managing Historical and Social Issues Today, the system is trying to manage various issues such as malnutrition among older adults that is increasing, the role of nurses and the importance of their diversity, and the growing costs of the services.
• Whistleblowing as a Social Issue in the Workplace The only hindrance to whistleblowing in society or the public is the authenticity of the information and how it will be received generally.
• Management of Obesity and Social Issues That Emerge With Its Development The article by Omole focuses on recent shift in the management of obesity and the social issues that emerge with its development, namely, the culture of fat-shaming, by considering some of the alternatives toward evaluating […]
• Key Social Issues Affecting Criminal Justice Professionals The absence of a decline in this percentage suggests that the criminal justice system has not been effective in addressing this issue. The criminal justice system has failed to decrease crime rates due to the […]
• Police Brutality: Social Issue This paper explores the issue of police brutality and seeks to shed light on the perceptions of the public, especially the black minority.
• Domestic Terrorism: Burning Social Issue In my opinion, people could be driven by some factors or they could be conditioned throughout their lives to engage in domestic terrorism. They may also say that they feel unrecognized in the management of […]
• Global Digital Divide as a Social Issue That is, if societies around the globe are able to bridge the gap between those who have and those who do not in relation to information technology, then the development problems would be minimized at […]
• Tragic Love and Social Issues in Giovanni Boccaccio’s Decameron In that regard, such distinction led to that love relationships were held in secret, and considering the origins of the lovers in both tales, it can be stated that the finale of these love stories […]
• J.A. McPherson and G.G. Marquez Novel’s: Urgent Social Issues The black waiter Doc and the Colonel are forced to live in a cruel world and adapt to the dominant system.
• Should Drugs Be a Health, Social Issue or a Legal, Criminal Issue? They are classified depending on the mode of action and the response induced in the body. In order to get information from the participants the following questions will be asked: What drug do you use?
• Professors and Their Views on Political or Social Issues in the Classroom He analyzes the statement issued by the American Association of University Professors’ Committee A on Academic Freedom and Tenure, “Freedom in the Classroom,” which he says seems to defend professors against attacks by the right […]
• Social Issues in Kuwait: Immigration Workforce Among the frequently highlighted issues in the country, one is the low productivity among the local workforce due to the high influence of favoritism and nepotism in promotions and merits.
• S. Hay’s and Feagin’s Works on Social Issues The work of the Sharon Hay’s “Flat Broke with Children” was assembled in a milieu characterised by the decline of the widely hailed welfare reform policies which had seen the diminishing of welfare rolls from […]
• Should Professors Be Allowed to Advocate Their Views on Political or Social Issues in the Classroom? In the recent past, professors have been accused of several faults, and it was because of these faults that it was deemed necessary to put a cap on the extent to which professors can excise […]
• Social Stratification Issues Solving If that is not the case, we meet different forms of institutional discrimination which can take different forms such as discrimination of children, gender discrimination, race and class discrimination.
• Social Inequality Issue Analysis Thesis Social inequality is a system and systematic worked as the framework of society and its functionality. What is acknowledged to be a hierarchical social structure are essentially confined to the primary units of economic […]
• Gender Pay Gap as a Multifaceted Social Issue The gender pay gap is defined as the average gross hourly earnings of men and women who are working. Secondly, political and economic causes and outcomes of the issue have to be considered.
• Domestic Violence as a Social Issue It is one of the main factors which stimulate the study’s conduction, and among the rest, one can also mention the number of unexplored violence questions yet to be answered.
• Masculinity as a Social Norms Issue However, the advancements that occurred with the rise of the LGBT movement and the empowerment of women now challenge established ideas.
• Pollution as a Social Issue and Mass Media’s Role The reason why plastic pollution gained traction only during the 21st century is directly connected to the invention of the Internet and the technological advances in electronics.
• Community Psychology in Addressing Social Issues Based on the lecture, we learned about the disparity between the rich and the poor, a domain that is associated with marginalization and stigmatization.
• Social Issues in Education: Applying Theory In the year 2000, the Ministry of Education banned any form of corporal punishment in all schools in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Social Issues of the Immigration Journal The authors studied the impacts of multiculturalism of the period 1980s to 1990s on institutional forms of immigrants in the Netherlands.
• Social Issues in Karl Marx’s Letter to John Mayer In your letter, it seems that those in power do not listen to you and your generation. This is one sure way of attaining power that is vital for you and your generation to change […]
• Social Issues in McMinden, Fictional Town The concepts of social stratification, division of labor, and social distance discussed in the essay appear to be connected by cause-and-effect relation.
• Socialist vs. Capitalist Approach to Social Issues Capitalism also refers to a system where the economy is independent of the state. In a Socialist economy, the intellectual property belongs to the government.
• Policy Changes and Social Issues The second step within the model is associated with the political stream, in which the previously identified problem is reviewed between communities of policy experts who possess knowledge of the problem.
• Rhetoric: Social Issues’ Influences on US Children Such an approach does not allow the readers to be 100% sure that this information is true to life and makes the statement rather weak.
• Economic and Social Issues in Japan The events of March 11 contributed to widespread changes in the Japanese society and government. In the midst of the March 11 disaster, a political reformation occurred.
• Alcoholism as a Social Issue and Its Effect on Families Such children tend to think that they are the causes of the problem, which would end up affecting them psychologically. Since children are not helped to get out of the horrifying scenarios, they end up […]
• Workplace Gender Bias: Social Injustice Issues Such situations make companies to classify its workforce based on the class systems17 that involve a consideration of the individual’s achievement and performance at the workplace.
• Social Issues in “Too Young to Wed” by Cynthia Gorney In the case of 10-year-old Ayesha who was married off to a 50-year old, the women in the family tried to stop the marriage.
• The Social Cost Issue The concept of “social cost” is applied in the economic analysis and estimation of most impacts. The writer observes the economic implications of such impacts on the social realm.
• Public Policies Addressing Social Issues in the USA The best form of policy that the US government uses to control lead poisoning in children is the increased awareness to prevent the use of lead in household paints.
• Social Issues in Self Help in Hard Times by Zinn The following are the main points from the chapter 15 of the Self Help in Hard Times book that were determined as Zinn’s main points of interest: The first main point of Zinn in this […]
• Social Issues in the “Leaving the Streets: Stories of Canadian Youth” The authors of the book are inclined to support the idea that to exit the street life successfully, the street youth should become oriented to the principles of the street disengagement and to breaking all […]
• Natural Disasters and Global Social Issues The hurricane led to a major shift in the social arrangement of the populations in the worst affected areas. This led to a significant loss of jobs in the affected areas.
• US Public Policies Social Issues In view of this, the article is useful since it provides readers with brief and structured information regarding the differences that The Affordable Care Act makes.
• Social Issues of Genital Cosmetic Surgery for Women The labia minora is the main target, and it aims at reducing the size of these lips to avoid protruding beyond the labia majora.
• Single Mothers’ Social Issues The little consideration given to single women living in poverty distorts the women and their families. The single mothers who have a heavy burden of caring for their children need help from the government.
• Intercollegiate Sports: Social and Cultural Issues A primary goal of this essay is to evaluate the impact of social and cultural issues on the ability to handle stress in the future while being a contestant of one of the intercollegiate sports.
• Social Issue of Sexual Assault: Definition and Forms Sometimes it’s not only the ordinary people that are in the dark, even the most important figures that are seen as the role models to the society happen to be in the dark about some […]
• Social Issues: Abortions Prohibition With this in mind, it is possible to say that the question of abortion is a very keen issue which sets the table for a great number of different debates. However, it is said that […]
• Social Issues: Levels of Conversation Impact The results of a conversation depending on the levels of communication between the parties that are involved. In this level of conversation, a self-fulfilling relationship may be developed particularly if the people involved in the […]
• Social Issues: Equity Among the African Demographics Combined with the problem of poverty and lack of educational resources, it takes a truly monstrous scale, affecting not only the lives of women in a number of regions of Africa, but also the entire […]
• Social Issues: Science Versus Indigenous Ways of Living The opinion of science seems to have become the only credible source of knowledge in a contemporary world, and for a good reason with the recent technological breakthrough and the advent of the era of […]
• Social Issues: “A critical Mess” by Scott Rowan In his argument, Rowan, the president of Sherpa Multimedia, explains the pains and frustrations that the Chicago community undergoes when the cyclists take to the streets demonstrating their riding skills and claiming that it is […]
• Social Issues: Child Observation in Khalifa Park It was noticed that there was a marked difference in the games boys and girls play and their reactions to winning and losing the games.
• Social Issues: Smartphones’ Positive Impacts In the past, it is expensive to make calls. In the past, it is not convenient to make calls using payphones.
• Social Issues: Urban Livability and Sustainability In achieving this choice in the United States, for instance, the Federal and State governments should allocate resources according to the development index of the cities in the continent.
• Social Issues: Non-Mainstream Body Modification The rise of many art styles and body modifiers, the increase in tattoo parlors dealing in non-mainstream art, and the emergence of websites, books, and magazines containing body art practices led to the rise of […]
• Social Issues: Ethnicity-based Jury Nullification This was because most of the jurists were whites, and they believed that whites had the freedom to treat other races the way they pleased.
• Social Issues: Hollywood Effects on Suburban Families The actions of the people who lived in the suburbs were largely influenced by the media. On the other hand, the suburban male was the provider and the protector of the house.
• The Discussion of WikiLeaks as a Social Issue The circulation of information on the Internet with the help of the media is the characteristic feature of the developing globalization.
• Social Issues: Demographic Transition Definition Phase two is considered to be the foundation of demographic transition, where there is a quick decrease in the mortality rate.
• Social Issues: Corporal Punishment To begin with, people that support corporal punishment say they do so because they believe that a child needs spanking to learn a discipline.
• Social Issues: Teen Pregnancy Lastly, there are no good role models to teach children the importance of abstinence, and this has led them to believe that they should engage in premarital sex to become famous.
• Social Issues: Police Protection of the Ku Klux Klan The situation when the police protected the Ku Klux Klan while gassing and arresting the demonstrators can seem to be unexpected and controversial because people are often inclined to associate the Ku Klux Klan with […]
• Social Issues: Rites and Ceremonies in People Life The life of a person as the member of the group or community is associated with definite rites and ceremonies which are followed to respond to the traditions, and cultural values developed during the centuries […]
• Social Issues: The Art of Living in Solitude The status of a single person is part and parcel of the modern reality for an increasingly large number of people and at the same time the major cause for psychological and social problems for […]
• Social Issues of Human Behavior: Nature and Nurture On the other hand, the nurture view asserts that behaviors are developed and persist according to the upbringing and the environment the individual grows up in.
• Social Issues: Appropriateness of Affirmative Action Affirmative action in the sphere of education can be discussed as the appropriate approach to evaluate the admissions of college students because it can guarantee the equal access to the limited educational resources for students […]
• Social Issues: Gentrification in Harlem Thus, gentrification in Harlem during the period of 2000-2012 is characterized by changes in the community’s demographics, household income, and economy connected with the arrival of wealthier residents, increased investment, promoted economic and business activities, […]
• Social Issues: How Identities are Constructed? In modern times, many people identify themselves with their countries of birth, and this makes them eligible for citizenship rights and other social and economic privileges that are offered by their countries.
• Social Issues: Game Theory in Daily Life In effect, game theory can be said to be a basis for making rational decisions whereby the given decisions create impacts on the decision making the ability of other entities in the group, while also […]
• Social Issues: Common Sense and Intuition One of the most noteworthy ideas in the book was the suggestion that, in as much as people try to act or say otherwise, from a subconscious point of view, the majority is actually practicing […]
• Social Issues: Gender Segregation The Code recognizes the “inherent dignity and worth of every person and to provide for equal rights and opportunities without discrimination”.
• Social Issues in the Book “The Academic Illusion” by Ken Robinson In the introductory part of the article, the author focuses on how intelligence is measured. In the last part of the article, the author persuades human beings to change how they perceive education.
• Social Issues: Property Ownership White views nature from a different standpoint to Forster’s; while he appreciates nature and the serenity of the place, Forster view of his wood is in terms of monetary value.
• Social Issues: Alcoholism as a Mode of Addiction Every single case of alcoholic dependence described in the lecture is perfectly consistent with the existing model, each piece of evidence falling into its place and, therefore, allowing the audience to have an entire picture […]
• Social Issues: Challenges Facing Young Immigrants It is against this backdrop that this essay seeks to explore the challenges facing young immigrants in the United States and the proactive measures that can be taken to rescue this vulnerable group in transiting […]
• Social Issues: the Freak Shows Popularity This appetite is what drives freak show organizers to find persons with severe deformities to satisfy the curiosity of the public.
• Social Issues: Muslim Immigrants in the UK Since the study aims at exploring Muslim immigrants in the UK, it will focus on the struggles of Muslim immigrants in the UK, the policies the UK government uses towards Muslim immigrants, and terrorism challenges […]
• Communist Manifesto, Time and Social Issues The primary issue of the manifesto is the vagaries in which the bourgeoisie subject and subjugate the proletariat, all in the struggle for private property.
• Immigration as Social Issue in Australia The research will explore the element of trans-nationalism that is likely to be the case with most of these immigrants and its impacts on their continued stay in Australia.
• Native Americans: Social Issue In addition, the references of the natives by the mainstream society have led to the under development and have prevented the evolution of the Indian Americans.
• Sufficient Justifications of the Legitimacy of Religious Positions on Social Issues Beale points towards the spiritual, historical and divine origins of the bible and utilizes this as the reinforcing factors behind his belief in the bible’s inerrancy and infallibility.
• Social Issue: The Death of the Whitney Houston In addition to giving a precise of the aforementioned story, the next discussion also elaborates the story by relating it to sociological imagination and the concept of social perspectives.
• Social Issue: Concepts of Sociological Imagination and Sociological Perspectives Sociology is a subject that offers insight into behavior of individuals and groups of people in a society and its scope covers established relationships between people in a society, the effects of such relationships on […]
• Social Issues; Crime and Poverty in Camden This has threatened the social security and peaceful coexistence of the people in the community. The larger the differences between the poor and the rich, the high are the chances of crime.
• White Privilege Social Issue Due to subtle nature of the racism in the modern society, the whites perceive it as just a social factor that differentiate people into privileged and unprivileged classes in the society.
• Social and Political Issues The military has been used by the corporations and the wealthy individuals to protect the interests of the nation, which are actually the interests of the corporations and the wealthy.
• Social Issues in the “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee The phrase ‘to kill a mocking bird’ stands out as a metaphor in the book To kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
• Homelessness as a Global Social Issue In the US, homelessness is on the increase because of economic melt- down and foreclosures. Moreover, differences in perception of homelessness by liberal and conservative on homeless have increased homelessness in the US.
• Gandhi’s contribution towards contemporary social issues Gandhi appreciates the existence of difference in the name of God amongst the Muslims, Hindus and Christians. In order for the concept of non-violence to be applicable, Gandhi is of the opinion that it is […]
• Why Is It Important to Address Social Issues in the Classroom?
• What Is a Social Issue Example?
• What Are the Basic Social Issues?
• What Is the Biggest Issue in the World Today?
• Is Poverty a Social Issue?
• Is Depression a Social Issue?
• How Many Social Issues Are There?
• Is Stress a Social Problem?
• Is Mental Illness a Social Issue?
• Is Social Anxiety a Social Issue?
• What Are the Four Types of Social Problems?
• What Is an Interesting Social Issue?
• How Do You Talk About Social Issues?
• Why Do We Need to Learn Social Issues?
• What Is the Most Common Social Issue?
• How Does Social Issues Affect Society?
• What Social Issues Are Not Talked About?
• What Are the Main Causes of Social Issues?
• Is Mental Health a Social Issue?
• What Is the Conclusion of Social Issues?
• What Are the Current Social Issue?
• How Do Social Issues Affect Students?
• How Do Social Issues Affect Development?
• What Will Happen if the Social Issues Are Not Controlled on Time?
• Why Are Social Issues Difficult?
• Why Should Social Issues Be Solved Socially?
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IvyPanda . "149 Social Issues Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." February 29, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/social-issues-essay-topics/.

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155 Social Problems Essay Topics & Research Questions to Write about

Are you looking for the best social issues topics? You’re at the right place! StudyCorgi has prepared a list of social problems research topics and questions for your speech, essay, and other writing assignments. You’ll find titles about inequality, teenage pregnancy, violence, hunger, and other problems facing contemporary society.

⚠️ 7 Social Issues Topics 2024

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• Poverty as a Social Problem
• Migration as a Social Problem
• Juvenile Delinquency as Social Problem Within Education Institutions
• Violence: The Social Problem
• Bullying: A Serious Social Problem
• Social Problems Assignment: Juvenile Delinquency
• Social Problem Analysis: Social Inequality in Education

If you need to write a paper on social issues and wonder what social problems to write about, here are a few easy options you can consider:

• Educational Institutions’ Social Problems: Juvenile Delinquency Juvenile delinquency is the problem that profoundly affects educational institutions as its representatives are people involved in education the most.
• Social Problems Related to Alcohol and Drugs The present paper will explain the content of three articles relating to the issue of Alcohol and drug use while also providing a personal reflection on the readings.
• Social Deviance Contribution to Social Problems The paper examines the forms that social deviance may acquire contributing them to social issues, that is criminal and non-criminal deviance.
• Oppression as a Social Problem The paper defines oppression in terms of marginalization, exploitation, powerlessness, cultural imperialism and violence: the key facets of oppression according to Iris Young.
• Solving Social Problems With a Nudge The speaker’s perspective is on the human mind’s diversity and complexity, making people manufacture irrational behavior, perpetuating poverty, corruption, and discrimination.
• The Use of Statistics in Evaluating Social Problems Statistics are an important tool for researchers and policymakers when analyzing particular social-related issues. The types of statistics are objective or subjective.
• Social Problems and Policy: Youth Unemployment and Mental Health In the history of the US, the federal and state governments have been at the forefront to facilitate effective social programs.
• America’s Social Problems Through the Song “Cookie Jar” by J. Johnson The song Cookie Jar is a song written by Jack Johnson song talks about the blame game that is going on and in American society.
• Social Problems of People with Disabilities People living with disabilities go through several challenges in life because society is yet to appreciate their presence.
• Modern Social Problems Through the Sociological Imagination Prism This paper aims to discuss the concept of the sociological imagination and its significance in understanding contemporary social problems.
• Queer (LGBTQ) Community as a Social Problem in Canada The Canadian government has shown interest in LGBTQ matters in recent years. Canadian queer persons are more likely to be victims of violent crime.
• Social Problem and Policy Analysis Human rights and social work perspectives show how standardized testing promotes inequality and increases the barriers for non-white individuals.
• American Modern Social Problem The United States is not renowned to having one of the best systems of health care worldwide, rather the U .S. is known for its best system in emergency care worldwide.
• Obesity in Adolescence as a Social Problem The paper states that adolescence is one of the most crucial developmental phases of human life during which the issue of obesity must be solved.
• Analyzing Social Problems: Health Disparities This discussion will examine the unequal access to healthcare and its cause, investigate its prevalence, describe vulnerable populations.
• Substance Abuse: The Cause of Social Problems Substance abuse is a contributing factor to social problems but cannot be said to be the one that is most responsible.
• Development of Children’s Friendship and Social Problems This analysis was reached upon following a close thirty-minute observation of infants, and it suggests various types of behaviors presented by children in play.
• Social Problem of Inequality Studies of social inequality included non-urban areas and social inequality factors that had not been included in previous studies.
• Social Problems Within Educational Institutions It is necessary to understand and analyze the connection between various social problems within U.S. educational institutions.
• Social Problems in Wilson’s “Fences” Play People who have been subjected to social oppression have a good chance of developing mental health problems in the future.
• World Poverty as a Global Social Problem Poverty and the key methods helping to reduce it attract the attention of numerous researchers in different areas of expertise.
• The Social Problems Behind the Military Suicide
• How Overpopulation Causes Social Problems?
• Ethical and Social Problems of Genetic Engineering
• The Economic and Social Problems of the 1930s
• Social Problems Among College Students
• Alphonso Pinkney’s Black American: Chronic Social Problems
• Race and Gender Impact on Social Problems
• Behavior and Social Problems in Classrooms
• Social Problems About School Drop Outs
• Current Political and Social Problems of Pakistan
• Social Problems Associated With Street Gangs
• Social Problems and the Theories of Emile Durkheim
• Unemployment and Social Problems in the Post-war United States
• Social Problems and Issues in Pakistan
• Sociology and Various Social Problems
• The Major Social Problems Facing the Teenagers of Today
• Values, Social Problems, and Balanced Development in Malaysia
• Political, Economic and Social Problems of France
• Social Problems Associated With Health and Happiness
• The Environment and Social Problems
• Social Problems Amongst the Homeless
• Mauritius: Tourism and Social Problems
• Social Problems Affecting Youth Today and Ways To Solve Them
• Nature and Social Problems
• Social Problems and Drug Abuse
• Critical Social Problems Affecting African Americans
• Social Problems Arise From the Views and Values of the Society
• Connection Between Social Problems and Urbanization
• Unemployment Social Problems Faced by China and West
• Social Problems Among Youth in Malaysia
• Meth Epidemic as a Social Problem: Film Analysis Drug consumption has become a major social problem for many states in the US as many drug users and addicts consider meth as their top choice.
• Texting and Driving: Social Problems Texting and driving refers to the act of receiving, reading and sending text messages while operating a motor vehicle, which is a hazardous practice that causes many fatalities.
• The Social Problem of Obesity in Adolescence The social worker should be the bridge uniting obese individuals and society advertising social changes, and ending injustice and discrimination.
• The Social Problem of Bullying and the School System The present paper focuses on the connection between the social problem of bullying and the school system, describing each of these concepts.
• Policies for Social Problems Social problems dominate in different parts of the world. Good policies should be devised to make it possible to pronounce dominant sociological problems.
• The Covid-19 Related Social Problems The paper discusses the Covid-19 pandemic that has caused devastating social disruption where millions of individuals have fallen into extreme poverty.
• The Most Crucial Social Problems To conclude, it is essential not to forget about less fortunate people who have nothing to eat and nowhere to live.
• Analyzing Social Problems – Case Study: Jake Levy The analysis of Jake Levy’s case led to lobby the state legislature to start a suicide prevention program for veterans who are getting mental health services.
• Perspectives on the Central Social Problem in Modern Society Social ills plaguing modern society have been a basic concern for many prominent philosophers throughout the ages.
• Social Problem: Hunger in the United States Hunger problem, income gap, race discrimination, poverty in rural regions, and COVID-19 outbreak have severe effects on the hunger problem.
• Potential Threat of Coronavirus as a Social Problem in Haines City, Florida SARS coronavirus is only a potential threat for Haines City so far, but preventing misinformation and potential panic is still an important social problem.
• Juvenile Delinquency as Social Problem of Vulnerable Populations The theme of this paper is such a problem of vulnerable populations as juvenile delinquency, its interconnection with other social problems, and possible ways of its solution.
• Benchmark as Social Problems The impact of social phenomenon, for instance, social inequality, vulnerable population and other problems with politics, on poverty from a macro and micro perspectives.
• Social Problems: Exploring the Main Types There are four main social problems; crime, violence, drug abuse, and environmental problems. The other social problems are very closely related to the above.
• Childhood Obesity: Medical Complications and Social Problems The children have also suffered from the adverse effects that have been instilled into our society. Obesity has become a common problem in children of American and European countries.
• American Social Problems of Women and the Elderly The issues of social discrimination experienced by women and elderly people have their roots in two fundamental perspectives of social life.
• Modern American Social Problems The essay lists the current American social problems and describes the key point of each problem the society faced nowadays.
• Americas Social Problems Nowadays The article explains the social, economic, political, technological, and legal impacts of war and how the global community can address the reality of terrorism.
• American Social Problems: Family and Education The family and education are major socializing agents in society and to be particular the United States of America.
• Rawls vs. Nozick on Social Problems and Criminal Justice The essay reflects on the articles of Rawls and Nozick to compare their key points and determine whose theory is most applicable to social problems and criminal justice.
• Global Warming: Solving a Social Problem Global warming may be a cause of the cooling in some parts of the world. Global warming can slow down ocean heat transport which becomes the reason for cooling in some regions.
• The Issue of Adolescent Pregnancy as a Major Social Problem The purpose of this study is to investigate the issue of adolescent pregnancy as a significant challenge that affects society across the globe.
• Social Problems Exam Practice
• PRS and Its Social Problems
• Social Problems and Legalization of Marijuana
• The Increasing Social Problems of Violence in the 20th Century
• Child Abuse – Social Problems
• Social Problems and Solutions Chart
• The Social Problems Facing Homeless Youth
• Social Problems Are Due to Society’s Tolerance of Immorality
• Realist and Constructivist Approaches to Social Problems
• Social Problems During the Industrial Revolution
• Emile Durkheim and Social Problems
• Literature During the Old Times Until Now Contribute To Address Social Problems
• Substance Abuse and Social Problems
• Public Education and the Impact of Social Problems
• Social Problems Facing Our US Veterens
• Physiological and Social Problems in the Middle East
• Social Problems and Homelessness in Savannah, Georgia
• Technical and Social Problems of Nuclear Waste
• Social Problems Associated With Interfaith Marriages
• Technology and Social Problems
• Social Problems Affecting Students and Schools in the US
• Ethnography: Social Problems
• Social Problems Affecting Society, Big and Small
• Appalachia: Culture and Social Problems
• Social Problems Associated With Racial Discrimination
• Political, Economic, and Social Problems in India
• Social Problems Behind Sexual Deviance
• Poor Neighborhoods Give Rise to Social Problems
• Literary Realism and Social Problems
• Prevalent Social Problems That Impacts Society
• What Are the Ethical and Social Issues of Genetic Engineering?
• What Social Problems Occur in Substance Abuse?
• What Are the Main Social Issues among the Youth in Malaysia?
• What Are the Social Problems behind War Suicide?
• What Are the Economic and Social Issues of Women Entrepreneurs in Turkey?
• What Are the Incentives for Solving Social Problems?
• What Business and Social Problems Does Data Center?
• Why Do Poor Neighborhoods Give Rise to Social Problems?
• What Are the Reasons for the Social Problems of Adolescents?
• What Are the Economic and Social Issues of the Caribbean?
• What Social Problems Arise Because of Society’s Tolerance for Immorality?
• What Are the Various Social Issues Faced by Black Women in the American South?
• How Social Problems Caused by the Elizabethan Poor Law of 1601?
• What Are Pakistan’s Current Political and Social Problems?
• What Are the Common Social Problems Affecting Society?
• What Is the Influence of Literary Realism on Social Problems?
• What Business and Social Problems Does Data Center Power Consumption Cause?
• How Does the Media Impact Social Problems?
• What Social Problems Are Revealed in the Great Gatsby?
• What Are the Social Problems Associated with Interfaith Marriages?
• Should the State Pay More Attention to Solving the Pressing Social Problems of Our Time?
• What Is the Connection between Social Policy and Social Problems?
• What Are the Social Problems Faced by Homeless Youth?
• What Are the Physiological and Social Problems in the Middle East?
• Online misinformation and its effects on society.
• Racial bias and discrimination in policing.
• The impact of populism on democracies.
• Factors perpetuating the gender pay gap.
• The influence of climate change on vulnerable populations.
• The impact of automation on the job market.
• The effects of cyberbullying on adolescents.
• The social consequences of rapid urbanization.
• Youth unemployment and social exclusion.
• Social implications of genetic modification technologies.
• Strategies to prevent cyberbullying and online harassment.
• The impact of social media on youth.
• Access to quality education for all.
• The importance of safeguarding personal information online.
• Encouraging youth to get involved in the democratic process.
• The influence of technology on social interactions.
• Ways to combat human trafficking.
• Raising awareness of human rights violations in conflict zones.
• The effects of social media on body image.
• Why should guns be prohibited?

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StudyCorgi. (2022, March 1). 155 Social Problems Essay Topics & Research Questions to Write about. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/social-problems-essay-topics/

"155 Social Problems Essay Topics & Research Questions to Write about." StudyCorgi , 1 Mar. 2022, studycorgi.com/ideas/social-problems-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . (2022) '155 Social Problems Essay Topics & Research Questions to Write about'. 1 March.

1. StudyCorgi . "155 Social Problems Essay Topics & Research Questions to Write about." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/social-problems-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "155 Social Problems Essay Topics & Research Questions to Write about." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/social-problems-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2022. "155 Social Problems Essay Topics & Research Questions to Write about." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/social-problems-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Social Problems were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on January 21, 2024 .

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Benedikt Fecher

1 Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society, Berlin, Germany

2 German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin), Berlin, Germany

Marcel Hebing

3 DBU Digital Business University of Applied Sciences, Berlin, Germany

Associated Data

The data underlying this study are available on Kaggle (DOI: 10.34740/kaggle/dsv/2366092 ).

Based on a communication-centered approach, this article examines how researchers approach societal impact, that is, what they think about societal impact in research governance, what their societal goals are, and how they use communication formats. Hence, this study offers empirical evidence on a group that has received remarkably little attention in the scholarly discourse on the societal impact of research—academic researchers. Our analysis is based on an empirical survey among 499 researchers in Germany conducted from April to June 2020. We show that most researchers regard societal engagement as part of their job and are generally in favor of impact evaluation. However, few think that societal impact is a priority at their institution, and even fewer think that institutional communication departments reach relevant stakeholders in society. Moreover, we show that researchers’ societal goals and use of communication formats differ greatly between their disciplines and the types of organization that they work at. Our results add to the ongoing metascientific discourse on the relationship between science and society and offer empirical support for the hypothesis that assessment needs to be sensitive to disciplinary and organizational context factors.

Introduction

Until the 1970s there was no doubt among policymakers that public investment in research would have a positive societal impact. The social contract for science at that time meant that science was granted an unusual degree of autonomy in return for widely diffused benefits to society and the economy [ 1 ]. It was only from the late 1980s onward that researchers were increasingly expected to account for their achievements in evaluation exercises [ 2 – 4 ]. Initially, these focused on intra-scientific (and often bibliometric) impact. In the last decade, however, policymakers have begun to focus more on the societal impact of research and hence on what academic research offers for the economy, society, culture, public administration, health, environment, and overall quality of life [ 2 , 5 , 6 ]. Noteworthy examples indicating the gradual shift from scientific to societal impact in research governance include the Research Excellence Framework (REF) in the United Kingdom or the Excellence in Research for Australia Framework (ERA) [ 7 – 9 ]. In the Netherlands, a region with some of the most developed examples of impact governance, the Association of Universities in the Netherlands (VSNU), the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), and the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) have implemented guidelines for the evaluation and improvement for research, the Standard Evaluation Protocol (SEP). The SEP is used by research institutions to evaluate research units and focuses strongly on relevance for society as well as research quality [ 10 , 11 ]. Societal impact is also a key component in European research funding [ 12 – 14 ].

In Germany, where the present study was conducted, there is no evaluation exercise comparable to the REF, ERA, or SEP. The topic has, however, been prominently discussed: Referring to the announcement that the next EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation will focus more on the societal benefits of research, the Alliance of Science Organisations stated in 2018 that any such evaluation should be differentiated and tailored to the demands of science [ 15 ]. In 2019, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) published a policy paper in which it stipulated that societal impact must become part of the academic reputation logic [ 16 ]. In 2020, it set up a think tank to work out how societal impact could be evaluated [ 17 ]. Also in 2020, the Alliance of Science Organizations issued an agreement containing four fields of action; this highlighted, among other things, scientific freedom and the need to anticipate disciplinary differences. The German Council of Sciences and Humanities, an advisory body to the German federal government, called for “more recognition for knowledge and technology transfer” [ 18 ]. The German Rectors’ Conference, the umbrella organization of German universities, decided at its general assembly (November 14, 2017) that knowledge transfer is a priority for universities [ 19 ]. Besides these developments at the level of science governance in Germany, there are a multitude of institutional initiatives and strategy developments underway. For instance, the Leibniz Association, a union of 96 nonuniversity research institutes, adopted a new mission statement for the transfer of scientific knowledge to society, the economy, and politics in 2019 [ 20 ].

Although there is no evaluation exercise in Germany comparable to the REF in the UK, it is evident that the topic has gained momentum in Germany in recent years as well. In light of complex societal challenges and the further integration of German research bodies into the European research area, the societal impact of research will likely become an even more prominent concern in research governance in the near future. If, as stated above, the old social contract granted science relative freedom in return for widely diffused benefits for society, the new social contract for science imposes accountability for the freedom granted to science [ 21 – 23 ]. This development has been criticized by the scientific community. For example, many associations for the social sciences and humanities in Germany expressed concern that the BMBF initiative does not take into account the current state of science communication research [ 24 ].

If societal impact is to be a new paradigm of science governance, it is important to better understand how societal impact emerges. In this article, we address this question from the perspective of researchers, that is, we ask what their views on societal impact are, what their goals are, and what formats they use to achieve them. Our analysis is based on a survey among 499 researchers in Germany conducted from April to June 2020. Here, we report the key results of this study and reflect on potential implications for science governance. Our results add to the ongoing scholarly discourse on societal impact by offering empirical evidence on a group that has received surprisingly little attention in the scholarly study of societal impact—academic researchers.

Societal impact in research

Two scholarly discourses are particularly relevant for the subject of this study: 1) the discourse in communication and science and technology studies (STS) on the relationship between science and society and 2) the discourse on societal impact measurement in scientometrics and evaluation research. In the following, we will delineate these two discourses and reflect on their implications for this study.

Relationship between science and society: From deficit to dialog

Before the first large-scale impact agendas were implemented, scholars in STS critically examined the nature and role of science in society, drawing on novel concepts of academic knowledge creation such as “Mode 2” [ 25 , 26 ], “academic capitalism” [ 27 ], “post-normal science” [ 28 ] or “Triple Helix” [ 29 ]. Although these concepts differ in their objectives, they generally assume a form of scientific value creation that is no longer self-sufficient and is increasingly interwoven with society. While these conceptualizations do not employ societal impact as an evaluative paradigm, they have paved the way for new thinking about the relationship between science and society. These explorations of the role of science in society were, however, primarily theoretical in nature. Later, entire lines of (communication) research addressed how the public deals with science, for example, the public understanding or awareness of science (PUS, PAwS), scientific literacy, or more recently the public engagement with science and technology (PEST) and the science of science communication [ 30 – 33 ]. In general, research in this area has shifted away from viewing society as an inactive recipient of knowledge—for example, in the so-called “deficit model of science communication” [ 34 ]—and towards envisaging more complex and interactive forms of knowledge creation and dissemination [ 3 , 35 – 37 ].

While there is a considerable body of literature on how the public perceives research, less attention has been paid to the institutional conditions for engagement and how researchers themselves deal with the public. Regarding these institutional conditions, scholars have observed a certain decoupling of central communication infrastructures at institutions and the researchers working there [ 38 , 39 ]. Others have pointed to the increased legitimation pressure exerted by research organizations and the increase in PR and marketing [ 40 ]. When it comes to researchers’ dealings with the public, scholars have focused on a) the relationship between science and specific publics—for instance, the media [ 41 , 42 ] or politics [ 41 ], b) the relationship between science and the broader public [ 41 , 43 – 45 ] or c) the communication practices of single disciplines [ 46 , 47 ]. Here, recurring themes include researchers motivations for engaging with the public [ 48 , 49 ], teaching and training [ 50 , 51 ], and institutional conditions [ 52 , 53 ]. Much research on the interfaces between science and society consists of various relevant case studies. Yet, there is a lack of comparable empirical evidence on one particularly decisive group of actors in the dialogical rationale, that is, academic researchers. This explains why, in this study, we focus on researchers and how they approach societal impact.

Measuring societal impact: From economic to broader societal benefit

In scientometrics and the wider field of evaluation research, the shift towards societal impact as an assessment paradigm in science governance has been accompanied by critical reflections. Martin, for example, asked pointedly whether the creation of the REF would create a “Frankenstein monster,” because the costs of conducting the evaluation might outweigh the benefits [ 8 ]. Others have argued that evaluations of societal impact are prone to methodological shortcomings [ 23 , 54 ] and might have unintended behavioral effects [ 55 , 56 ]. In addition, there are two further points of criticism concerning the concept of societal impact: On the one hand, critics point to the inadequate representation of the complexity of science, for example, because impact logics of the natural sciences are used as a yardstick for evaluations [ 6 , 57 ]. In contrast, impact assessments have been described as failing to do justice to transfer activities in the social sciences and humanities (SSH) [ 58 – 60 ]. In recent years, new approaches have been developed that specifically address the SSH [ 6 , 61 , 62 ]. On the other hand, criticism is directed towards the representation of society, whose benefit has often been reduced to economic indicators (e.g., revenue, jobs) and not the broader societal impact [ 5 , 63 ]. However, some evaluation exercises have broadened their scope to include the wider benefits to society [ 2 ].

Recent models for societal impact have tried to incorporate dialog into their conceptions of societal impact. An example of this is Jong et al.’s concept of productive interactions, which proceeds from the assumption that current productive interactions between researchers and societal stakeholders will improve the probability of future societal impact [ 64 ]. In this regard, interactions are deemed productive if encounters between researchers and societal stakeholders lead to knowledge that is academically sound and socially valuable [ 62 , 64 ]. The concept indicates that two quality regimes—a scientific and a societal—are important for deciding on the productiveness of a dialog. It should be noted that science is part of society and both the sciences and their publics have differing ideas about robustness and usefulness [ 32 ]. The notion of societal impact as an (effect of) dialog is useful in the context of this study, because it allows us to move from pure utilization and reception research to examining the anticipated societal impact of researchers. Drawing from the wider field of evaluation research, we examine how academic researchers anticipate the broader societal impact of their research.

Conceptualization of societal impact in this study

Building on the discourse in evaluation research, we refer to broader societal impact, i.e., the benefits that research holds for the economy, individual wellbeing, the environment, and culture [ 2 , 14 ]. According to Bornmann, three main strands of societal impact can be distinguished: First, societal impact as a product (i.e., as an artifact that embodies scientific knowledge), second, societal impact as use (i.e., the adoption of academic knowledge by societal stakeholders), and third, societal impact as benefits (i.e., the effects of the use of research) [ 2 ]. Here we focus on the latter—we consider the desired societal benefits that researchers associate with their work (goals, RQ2) and the formats they use to communicate about their research (formats, RQ3). To further differentiate societal benefits and formats, we conducted a qualitative prestudy (see Method section). To gain a better understanding of how researchers perceive societal impact as a paradigm in research governance, we included questions to elicit respondents’ opinions on the role of societal impact at their institutions and in their work, on whether societal impact should be given more weight in evaluations, and on whether their institutional communication departments are reaching relevant societal stakeholders [ 38 , 39 ] (opinions, RQ1).

Explanatory dimensions

Drawing on De Jong and colleagues and in line with the metascientific discourse on the conception of the relationship between science and society, we see societal impact as the effect of interaction between scientific and societal stakeholders [ 61 , 62 , 64 ]. We hence used a framework for communication inspired by Cohn’s concept of theme-centered interaction [ 65 , 66 ] and Luhman’s notion of meaning [ 67 , 68 ] when deriving our explanatory variables. We differentiated between three dimensions of explanatory variables:

• The content dimension is defined by the researcher’s disciplinary background and their self-assessment as to whether their research is applied or basic. It can be assumed that researchers’ approaches to societal impact varies between disciplines [ 58 – 60 ]. We assumed that a researcher’s disciplinary background would affect their choice of societal goals. We further expected to find differences between researchers who considered themselves applied and those who considered themselves basic researchers—societal impact might play a greater role for applied researchers [ 69 – 73 ]. We therefore assumed that applied researchers would be more supportive of societal impact evaluations and would also be more active in using communication formats.
• The organizational dimension is defined by the type of research organization (i.e., universities, universities of applied sciences, nonuniversity research institutions). The organizational factors influencing societal impact have, with notable exceptions [ 52 , 53 ], been little researched so far. Here, we were particularly interested in differences between various types of public research institutions in Germany (see Method section below). We assumed that researchers at independent institutes would be more active than university researchers in using communication formats because they usually do not have teaching obligations. We further expected researchers who worked at applied science universities to be more active in using collaboration formats.
• The individual dimension is defined by the sociodemographic factors of age, gender, and academic status. Gender and age differences in connection with human agency have been widely researched in the social sciences, also as they pertain to scholarly communication [ 74 – 80 ]. How these relate to researchers’ engagement with society is still little understood. Academic status may have an influence on the use of communication formats, in the sense that high-status academics may be most active in advisory roles.

Research questions

By looking at these dimensions, we aimed to understand how these factors might influence the interaction between scientific and nonscientific actors in terms of the opinions researchers hold, the societal goals they pursue, and the formats they use to communicate about their research. Three research questions guided our analysis and structured the presentation of the results; when analyzing each question, we use our three dimensions of explanatory variables (i.e., content, organization, individual) to structure and compare the results.

• RQ1 : What are researchers’ opinions on societal impact? What differences can be identified along the three dimensions (i.e., content, organization, individual)?

In particular, we were interested in researchers’ perspectives on a) societal engagement as a part of scientific activity, b) whether societal impact should be considered more in research evaluation, c) the performance of institutional communication departments in reaching relevant societal stakeholders, and d) the importance of knowledge transfer at the institutions.

• RQ2 : Which societal goals do researchers aim to achieve with their research? How do these differ along the three dimensions (i.e., content, organization, individual)?

We used the 13 goals that we identified by coding the REF use cases as a framework (e.g., supporting legislative decision making, driving technical innovation, preserving cultural heritage, or protecting the environment).

• RQ3 : Which formats do researchers use to achieve societal impact? How do these differ along the three dimensions (i.e., content, organization, individual)?

Again, we used our coding of the REF use cases as a framework and took a close look at educational offerings, consulting, events, PR, social media, and collaborations.

The institutional review board and data protection officer of the Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society approved this study. Informed written consent was obtained from the participants in this study. The data was analyzed anonymously. To answer the research questions, we conducted a survey from April to June 2020 among 499 scientists in Germany. In the following, we describe the instrument and its distribution, the sample design, and the analysis of the data. The survey instrument, the aggregated data, and the prestudy (qualitative analysis of REF case studies) can be found on the project’s website ( https://www.impactdistillery.com/2020-impact-survey/ ). The survey was part of a BMBF-funded research project addressing the question of societal impact and its measurability in the social sciences and humanities ( https://www.wihoforschung.de/de/impaqt-2631.php ).

We designed a standardized instrument, consisting of six sections (A: sociodemographics, B: work context, C: knowledge transfer, D: teaching, E: research, F: general questions, G: personality). Here, we report on the largest section (C: knowledge transfer), which covers our three RQs, and use questions from sections A, B, and F for the explanatory analysis.

RQ1 was covered by a set of items (C1) addressing researchers’ attitudes towards societal impact—i.e., their opinions regarding the importance of knowledge transfer as part of scientific activity and at their institutions, their opinions towards a stronger weighting of societal impact in research evaluation, and the performance of their institution’s communication department in reaching relevant societal stakeholders. We used a 5-point Likert scale (from strongly disagree to strongly agree) to elicit agreement or disagreement with a statement.

RQ2 (goals) and RQ3 (formats) were implemented as multiple-choice questions (C3 and C5). The answer categories were based on a structuring content analysis of the REF impact case studies, which we carried out as a prestudy in spring 2019. In 2014, the UK became the first country to assess the societal impact of research as part of a national assessment. The REF evaluates societal impact via case studies, which are narratives that describe how research conducted at a higher education institution created a wider societal benefit. Of course, REF impact case studies are written to succeed in the evaluation in question [ 81 ]. Nevertheless, as researchers’ expressions of impact, they provide a suitable textual data basis for developing goal and format categories [ 82 , 83 ]. The REF case studies are available in a public database ( https://impact.ref.ac.uk/casestudies/ ). The case studies were analyzed by two coders separately and frequently discussed in the research group in order to achieve intercoder reliability. The main categories of the content analysis were reflected in the questions on societal goals (i.e., What societal impacts do you want to achieve with your research?; 13 items—RQ2) and communication formats (i.e., Which transfer formats have you already used to communicate your results?; 6 items—RQ3). Each question allowed further responses in an open text field—from the few additional responses and the high response rate, we concluded that the identified categories were robust.

To ask about sociodemographic factors (sections A & B), we re-used questions that had already proved useful in a previous survey [ 77 , 80 ]. The range of disciplines we asked about (A5) was based on the classification of the German Research Foundation [ 84 ].

To evaluate the quality and reliability of the survey, we conducted two rounds of pretests. The first round involved topic experts (i.e. fellow meta-researchers) and methodological experts who reviewed both the content and the design of the survey. The second pretest round involved researchers from different disciplines who completed the survey, focusing on its usability and providing us with a first dataset for preliminary analysis and optimization. As a result, we revised descriptions and shortened the survey.

Sample design and distribution

We designed a semi-convenience sample, which means that in principle any researcher with the link to the survey could participate. However, we personally invited certain researchers so that we could adequately cover the explanatory dimensions (i.e., the different organizational settings, disciplines, and career stages in Germany). With this in mind, we applied the following distribution strategy: We contacted the faculty heads of 60 German universities and 60 universities of applied science ( Fachhochschulen ; in the following, we use the short form “applied universities”) and asked them to distribute the survey to researchers in their faculties. We selected the universities and applied universities based on the number of students and chose the 20 largest and the 20 smallest as well as 20 medium-sized ones. Additionally, we contacted the directors of each institute within the biggest German non-university research organizations (in the following shortened to “independent institutes”), i.e., the Max Planck Society, the Leibniz Association, the Helmholtz Association, and the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft. We also contacted the German Research Association’s (DFG) graduate schools. Despite these efforts, our sample was not probabilistic and we assumed a certain self-selection bias due to the topic of the survey. Second, because the sample consisted of researchers in Germany, the transferability of the results to other research and innovation systems is limited.

The distinction between different types of research organizations (i.e., universities, applied universities, independent institutes) is important for this study. Independent institutes are characteristic of the German research system. They are typically independent of universities and focus on specific fields of research; scientists at these institutions are not obliged to teach. These institutes are typically organized within the Max Planck Society, the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres, the Fraunhofer Society, and the Leibniz Association. Researchers from independent institutes should in theory be able to devote more resources to transfer activities than researchers at universities and applied universities, as this latter group has teaching obligations. Applied universities are Germany-specific tertiary education and research institutions. They are rather transfer-oriented and usually specialized in certain fields (e.g., arts, technology, or business). Researchers from applied universities typically have the most extensive teaching obligations. However, due to their applied approach, societal impact should presumably play a more central role for researchers at these kinds of institutions.

We conducted the online survey from April to June 2020. Participants were invited with an initial email and one reminder, both including a request to distribute the survey among colleagues.

Sample description

Overall, 841 people started the survey, 534 of whom completed it (63%). In this paper, we focus on those who stated that their primary work location is Germany, leaving us with 499 valid (59%) cases to analyze.

Fig 1 provides an overview of the sample. Our distribution system had the desired effect—respondents from all disciplines and institutions took part. Regarding sociodemographic characteristics, the genders were equally distributed (50% male, 49% female, and 1% others). For ages 18 to 29 there were almost twice as many female as male researchers in the sample, while there were almost twice as many males as females in the 50 to 59 age group. For the 60+ group, there were approximately three times more male than female researchers in the sample (we excluded others due to the small sample size of 1%). This, however, corresponded roughly to the general gender distribution in German academia [ 85 , 86 ].

(1) To what extent do researchers from the three disciplinary groups (natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities) consider their work as basic or applied research? (2) Distribution of the disciplinary groups across the prevailing institutional types. (3) Distribution of the researchers’ sex across age groups. (4) Distribution of disciplinary groups for male and female researchers. The number of participants with other sex was so small that they were not included in these graphs.

60% of our participants worked at universities, 28% at independent institutes, 10% at applied universities, and only 2% at other forms of institutions; hence, when analyzing the organizational dimension, we focused on the three largest types of organizations. Furthermore, we found that 34% were PhD candidates, 25% were postdocs, 11% were academics without a PhD, 25% were professors and 5% were others. Regarding the disciplinary background, we used the classification of the German Research Association (DFG) and merged the disciplines into three groups: 41% of the respondents were from the natural sciences, 35% were from the social sciences, and 26% were from the humanities [ 84 ].

We found very little empirical research that looked at how researchers approach societal impact. Therefore, we conducted an exploratory analysis and focused on descriptive methods. Most of the results are presented as bivariate distributions that cross-tabulate the three dimensions from our conceptual framework with our research questions. For RQ1 (opinions on science communication), we asked respondents about evaluations because these would have practical implications for their working lives. With this particular dependent variable, we calculated a regression model (OLS) to analyze multivariate effects in more detail.

Some of the questions we analyzed were implemented as a 5-point Likert scale (strongly disagree, disagree, neutral, agree, strongly agree). In general, we considered agreement as the last two answer categories of the scale (agree + strongly agree) and report on this.

In the research section we present the results for the three research questions alongside the three dimensions of the independent variables, i.e., the content dimension, the organizational dimension, and the dimension of a researcher’s individual characteristics.

RQ1—opinion: Individual commitment without an institutional mandate

Overall, 89% of the respondents agree that public engagement is part of scientific activity. 53% agree that societal impact should be given more weight in research evaluations. Only 27% of respondents think that knowledge transfer plays an important role at their institution and that their communication department is reaching relevant stakeholders in society.

Across all disciplinary groups, the respondents largely agree that public engagement is part of scientific activity (from 86% in the natural sciences, 91% in the humanities, to 93% in the social sciences). Respondents vary in their opinions on whether societal impact should be given more weight in research evaluations: Only 40% of the respondents from the natural sciences agree compared to 65% for the social sciences and 58% for the humanities. Applied researchers are more in favor of societal relevance being given greater consideration in evaluations than basic researchers (see Fig 2 ). Only 15% of respondents from the humanities are convinced that their institutional communication departments are reaching relevant stakeholders in society, compared to 30% of natural scientists and 31% of social scientists.

The responses are differentiated by how much the researchers consider their work to be basic or applied research and the three disciplinary groups. The original question text was “How strongly do the following statements apply to you?.” We combined the approving answer categories to calculate the approval rates.

Researchers at applied universities agree that societal relevance should have more weight in evaluation more often than those at independent institutes and universities—the approval rates are 62%, 49%, and 53% respectively. Researchers at universities show the lowest agreement to the statement that knowledge transfer plays an important role at their institution: Only 19% approve compared to 36% at applied universities and 37% at independent institutes. Furthermore, researchers at universities particularly disagree with the statement that their communication departments are able to reach relevant stakeholders in society: Only 15% approve compared to 28% at applied universities and 44% at independent research institutes.

Both male and female researchers regard public engagement as part of scientific activity (89% and 90%). However, female researchers agree that societal relevance should be part of research evaluation more often than male researchers (62% compared to 44%). There are noteworthy differences among academic status groups: 60% of doctoral researchers but only 42% of postdocs and 47% of professors in our sample agree that societal relevance should have more weight in evaluation. Age does not seem to affect opinions on whether public engagement is part of scientific work.

Because of the differences outlined above, we decided to conduct a regression analysis (see Table 1 ). This confirms the descriptive observations: Humanities scholars (p = 0.01) and social scientists (p<0.01) are significantly more likely to agree that societal relevance should be part of research evaluation compared to natural scientists. Furthermore, female researchers (controlled for discipline), applied researchers, and younger researchers are significantly more in favor of including societal relevance in research evaluation.

How does the discipline, gender, age, a, applied-research focus, and the opinion that science communication is an academic task influence a researcher’s opinion on whether or not societal relevance should be taken into account when evaluating research. The regression model was calculated using ordinary least squares. The reference category for the discipline is the natural sciences.

This shows that researchers are generally in favor of societal impact and regard public engagement as part of scientific activity. Fewer researchers, but still many, agree that societal impact should have more weight in research evaluations. However, this assessment differs depending on the researcher’s discipline, their applied or basic research focus, their gender, and their age. It is noteworthy that researchers (especially at universities) do not think that knowledge transfer plays an important role at their institution and that institutional communication departments are reaching relevant societal stakeholders. From this, we infer that societal impact is understood as an individual task for which there is no institutional mandate.

RQ2—goals: Disciplines define societal goals

Overall, researchers’ most important societal goal is to contribute to education (69%), followed by stimulating public discourse (55%). Equal proportions of respondents—37% each—regard contributing to informed political decision-making and to the physical and mental wellbeing of the population as a societal goal associated with their work. Given the choice of the 13 societal goals identified in the qualitative coding exercise, less than 10% of respondents selected contributing to national and/or international security and creating an entertainment offering; we hence excluded these in reporting. Fig 3 provides an overview of the societal goals the respondents could choose from by disciplinary group.

The radar chart illustrates which goals researchers from our three disciplinary groups pursue when communicating with nonscientific audiences. The numbers are based on the question “What social effects do you most likely want to achieve with your research? With my research, I would like to …”. The original question contained two more options (“… contribute to national and/or international security.” and “… create an entertainment offering.”), but these were chosen by less than 10% of the respondents and are therefore excluded.

It is striking that the disciplinary groups have quite different impact profiles: Scholars from the humanities tend to have culture- and discourse-oriented goals, social scientists have discourse-, social-justice-, and policy-oriented goals, and natural scientists have technology-, health-, and environment-oriented goals. Making a contribution to education is by far the most common impact goal across all disciplines (87% for the humanities, 70% for the social sciences, 58% for the natural sciences). For humanities scholars and social scientists, stimulating and supporting public discourse is among the top societal goals (80% for humanities scholars and 74% for social scientists). Furthermore, 62% of humanities scholars consider preserving cultural heritage a goal of their activities; 54% of social scientists consider strengthening the position of disadvantaged groups to be an impact goal. The main goal for natural scientists is to drive technical innovation (59%), followed by making a contribution to education (58%), and contributing to the physical and mental wellbeing of the population (46%). The differences between applied and basic researchers in terms of their societal goals are negligible.

When looking at the different types of organizations, it is noticeable that researchers from applied universities are most economically oriented: 41% of the researchers from universities of applied sciences indicate that they want to contribute to economic value creation (19% at nonuniversity institutions and 17% at universities). In contrast, researchers from independent institutes are most the policy-oriented ones: 54% of the researchers from independent institutes aim to contribute to political decision-making (31% at universities and 37% at applied universities).

Young researchers (age group 18–29 years, mostly PhD students) reported less often that they aim to contribute to public discourse (37% in comparison to 65% for 30–39-year-olds) or political decision-making (21% in comparison to 48% for 40–49-year-olds). When it comes to gender, male researchers are more inclined to pursue goals that are also related to their disciplines and vice versa. For example, technical innovation is a goal for 43% of male researchers and for 20% of female researchers. Female researchers are more interested in supporting minorities (41%) than male researchers (25%). The academic status of the respondents did not have any noteworthy effects on their goals.

From this, we conclude that societal goals are best explained by the disciplinary backgrounds of researchers. While natural scientists chose goals in the spheres of environment and health as well as innovation and economic value creation, social scientists’ goals centred more on civic society and social justice as well as politics and public discourse. Humanities scholars also chose discourse-oriented goals and focused on societal goals in the cultural sphere. Despite the differences in the definition of societal goals, it is noteworthy that making a contribution to education ranks among the top three goals for every disciplinary group. It is also evident that researchers from applied universities tend to be more economically oriented, while researchers from independent institutes tend to be more policy-oriented.

RQ3—formats: University researchers are the least active

The only transfer format that more than half of the respondents (68%) had used in the past are events (i.e., including public lectures, exhibitions, expert panel discussions). The second most used communication format is public relations (i.e., comment pieces in newspapers or interviews)—45% of respondents have used these in the past. This is followed by educational offerings in schools and for civil society (43%), social media communication (38%), advisory formats (33%), and collaborations with nonscientific partners (33%).

It is evident that humanities scholars especially use social media to communicate about their research: 55% of humanities scholars approve of such methods compared to 33% of natural scientists and 38% of social scientists. Social scientists have the most experience with advisory formats: 50% have used them compared to 28% of humanities scholars and 24% of natural scientists. Comparing applied and basic researchers, we noted that basic researchers hardly ever offer advisory formats (14% for basic researchers vs. 47% for applied researchers) or collaborations (17% for primarily basic researchers vs. 39% for primarily applied researchers).

Researchers from applied universities are the primary users of advisory formats: 57% of researchers at applied universities have used advisory formats compared to 40% of researchers at independent institutes and only 26% of the researchers at universities. Only 28% of the researchers from universities have used collaboration formats, compared to 53% of researchers from applied universities and 35% of researchers from independent institutes. As Table 2 shows, university researchers have remarkably low scores on every communication format.

Concerning researchers’ individual characteristics, the analysis shows that social media platforms are used more by younger scientists. Less surprisingly, the older a researcher is, the more likely it is that he or she has ever used a format. Regarding gender differences, more male than female researchers have used advisory formats: 43% of male researchers have done so compared to 24% of female researchers.

To conclude, we find that researchers use a variety of formats to communicate results. There are, however, some interesting differences in usage: Humanities scholars particularly tend to communicate their research via social media. Social scientists are most experienced when it comes to advisory formats. Researchers from applied universities are especially likely to have used advisory and collaboration formats. Younger researchers use social media to communicate about their research more than older researchers, and male researchers particularly tend to use advisory formats. In general, it is noteworthy that university researchers are the least active group for almost any of the formats.

Discussion and conclusions

Societal impact, and hence what academic research offers the economy, society, culture, public administration, health, environment and overall quality of life, is gaining in importance in science governance [ 2 , 5 , 6 ]. Likewise, the topic is on the top of the agenda of prominent policy makers and research organizations in Germany, where our study took place. If science is to be assessed based on its contribution to society, the conditions under which social impact arises should be clear. This article contributes to this discourse by addressing researchers’ perspectives on societal impact, that is, their opinions on societal impact (RQ1), the societal goals they associate with their research (RQ2), and the formats they use to engage with society (RQ3). For this reason, we conducted a survey among 499 researchers in Germany from April to June 2020.

Regarding researchers’ opinions, it is remarkable that the majority of researchers (89%) consider societal engagement to be part of scientific activity. More than half of the researchers (53%) agree that societal impact should be given more weight in evaluations. Even though the majority of researchers regard public engagement as part of scientific work, they are not equally positive about whether societal impact should have more weight in evaluations. One reason for this discrepancy may be that researchers fear that evaluations will lead to additional work or that they will not adequately record their transfer activities [ 23 , 60 , 64 ]. In addition, it is striking that only 27% of the respondents assume that knowledge transfer plays an important role at their institution; also 27% n believe that the institutional communication department is managing to reach relevant stakeholders in society. Humanities scholars (15%) and university researchers (15%) particularly doubt that their communication departments are reaching relevant societal stakeholders. This mirrors previous findings suggesting a certain decoupling between central transfer infrastructures and researchers [ 38 , 39 ] and leads us to hypothesize that there is a certain mismatch between individual and institutional commitment.

Regarding the societal goals that researchers associate with their work, it is noteworthy that contributing to education is by far the most important goal (picked by 69% of the respondents) across all groups, followed by stimulating public discourse (55%) and contributing to informed political decision-making (37%). Moreover, it is apparent that societal goals are subject to disciplinary considerations: We show that scholars from the humanities have culture and discourse-oriented goals, social scientists have discourse-, policy- and social-justice-related goals and natural scientists have innovation- and health-related goals. This supports many theoretical reflections about the epistemic conditions for societal impact and the different roles that disciplines occupy in society [ 36 , 56 , 87 ]. We also find that young researchers (age 18–29) are less keen on stimulating public discourse than older ones (37% in comparison to 65% for 30–39-year-old researchers) or informing political decision-making (21% for young researchers compared to 48% for 40–49-year-old researchers). This can likely be explained by the experience that older researchers have acquired, which might make them especially well placed to influence public and political decision-making.

As far as the formats used for societal outreach are concerned, the most commonly used ones are events (used by 65% of the respondents), followed by public relations via media (45%), and educational formats for schools and civil society groups (43%). Humanities scholars especially use social media to communicate results (55% compared to 33% of natural scientists and 38% of social scientists). Basic researchers do not use advisory formats (14% vs. 47%) or collaborations (17% vs 39%) anything as often as applied researchers. Note that university researchers report remarkably low usage of any communication format compared to researchers at applied universities or at independent institutes. This might be explained by the fact that university researchers have teaching obligations not faced by those at independent institutes and thus less time for engagement activities. However, researchers from applied universities typically have a higher teaching workload. As far as researchers’ individual characteristics are concerned, it is notable that social media is used more by younger researchers, indicating that social media will likely become more important as a means of engagement.

While our results are mainly of a descriptive nature and we do not make normative assumptions about the subject of our research (i.e. “it is good to have more impact”), we can still draw some practical conclusions: First, considering the discontent with institutional communication departments, it might be worthwhile to implement decentralized support structures on the mesolevel of research organizations. This could more adequately address the complexities of the sciences and their many publics [ 5 , 6 , 57 , 63 ]. The findings further suggest that, where applicable, organizational factors (e.g., institutional investments in transfer, training offerings, support infrastructures) should be more strongly incorporated into assessments of societal impact—for example. through formative evaluations [ 88 ]. Second, our results suggest that it is strongly advisable that evaluation exercises are responsive to disciplinary differences. For example, if economic and technical impact were the sole basis for assessing societal impact, social sciences and humanities scholars would be discriminated against [ 6 , 63 ]. Our framework for societal goals and our results can also be the basis for disciplinary self-understanding (e.g., in learned societies), in that they can stimulate a normative discussion about good transfer and its evaluation. Third, considering the comparatively low importance of social media as a means of communicating about research, care should be taken not to overuse online discourse as a way of easily generating impact proxies. Moreover, our findings contribute to an informed discussion in science governance about the constraints of impact evaluation and might help impact officers and communication professionals at universities to reflect on strategies.

Our results add to the ongoing scholarly discourse on societal impact. We think that our results could bring two relevant but still separated discourses closer together, that is, the discourse on impact evaluation and the discourse on science communication/public engagement. It makes sense for critical evaluation research to make use of empirical work on the exchange between science and society. Vice versa, it makes sense to examine how evaluation policies for societal impact might affect researchers’ communication behavior. We further provide initial evidence on potentially relevant research perspectives. This concerns the organization of societal impact at scientific institutions. In addition, we suggest that national innovation systems should be studied comparatively in order to understand the impact of policies and to study more closely the relationship between transfer practices and societal impact in specific disciplines.

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank Natalya Sokolovska, Sascha Schönig, and Elias Koch for their help in coding the REF impact case studies. We would also like to thank Gert G. Wagner and Ricarda Ziegler for their friendly feedback.

Funding Statement

B.F. received funding by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (01PW18008A; 01PW18008B; https://www.wihoforschung.de/de/impaqt-2631.php ). The funder had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.

Data Availability

• PLoS One. 2021; 16(7): e0254006.

Decision Letter 0

24 Mar 2021

PONE-D-21-03474

How Do Researchers Achieve Societal Impact? Results of an Empirical Survey Among Researchers in Germany

Dear Dr. Fecher,

Thank you for submitting your manuscript to PLOS ONE. After careful consideration, we feel that it has merit but does not fully meet PLOS ONE’s publication criteria as it currently stands. Therefore, we invite you to submit a revised version of the manuscript that addresses the points raised during the review process.

Reviewers agreed that the paper is valuable; however, they suggest several revision points. I advise you to incorporate as many suggestions as possible, and when not possible, please explain why. Please enhance the method section by clearly explain the statistics and the survey. A more detailed introduction and discussion are needed.

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Reviewer #1: Partly

Reviewer #2: Yes

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Reviewer #1: No

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Reviewer #1: Yes

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Reviewer #1: The research topic of the study is relevant both academically and socially. The authors bring out the important question how researchers understand their efforts to engage in non-academic organizations and institutions and their possibilities to achieve social impact via their research organizations. They point out rather interesting results. Statistical research on research impact is clearly underdeveloped and needs more studies like this. However, the manuscript has several major problems in methodical soundness and in the theoretical framework, which is not connecting to the results or to the academic discussion about research impact.

There are four major problems that the paper needs to address:

1. The whole analysis section is missing regarding the statistical analysis. The reader cannot see how the authors conducted the study. There is only one section where the authors uses a regression analysis, while the whole analysis is descriptive. It needs a good reason to ground such an analytical choice. The statistical description requires re-phrasing and the tables need reformulations. It is rather difficult to understand the authors’ writing through these expressions and the table.

2. Because the questionnaire of this research is self-designed, there should be description of its validity and reliability, which are now missing.

3. Because the method, analysis and results are insufficiently presented, I strongly recommend to ask an expert in statistics to re-check and revise these sections. I believe such expertise would help to improve the readability, validity and reliability of this article.

4. The theoretical framework relating to science communication in the manuscript does not connect to the results of the study. The discussion section lacks correspondence to academic discussion about research impact. There are several theoretical approaches to social impact of research or science communication and the authors should point out what point of view their hypothesis and results are supporting. The interpretation of the results lacks a meaningful theoretical framework, although the study presents a framework for science communication. I recommend to structure a hypothesis vis-à-vis science communication and interpret the results by this framework for the study.

I suggest some minor recommendations here:

- I recommend that a professional language service would proof read this article.

- The title of the paper corresponds weakly to the study, as the paper studies people’s opinions and understanding of their engagement, not how they actually achieve impact.

- The study utilizes the categories of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) from the United Kingdom. However, the REF cannot be argued to be without normative assumptions when it is a result of policies. The utilization in analysis needs some theoretical justification for using such criteria for impact.

- Basic and applied distinction is not always clear and divergent disciplines may have differing opinions about this. Use of such distinction needs theoretical support.

- The questionnaire has a section considering respondent’s personality. I cannot see this data in the paper and the meaning of such data for the paper.

- What do the authors mean by: "...by the socio-demographic factors: gender, status, and age."? In addition what “status”, do you mean employment status? Please, be more specific of these terms.

- Expression “In relation to the engagement with society” is unclear. It can be read that research is not part of society.

- Did you select the universities according to your criteria for the selection among all universities in Germany?

- Your description of semi-convenient/convenient sample is not consistent in the paper.

- The result section is rather long, and some parts are quite repetitive. Shortening it could make it more reader-friendly.

- Description of the REF coding needs to be placed in the method section.

- Table 2 title needs to be more specific.

- Table 3 is missing completely.

- What does “sustainable strategy for impact” mean in this context?

- What is specific impact in relation to disciplines? I don't think reference to a policy paper is relevant in discussion part. It should have discussion with the science communication literature or impact literature.

- In the appendix figure, there is a wrong title for the bar chart: basic vs. applied.

Reviewer #2: Thanks for the opportunity to review your manuscript entitled "How do researchers achieve societal impact? Results of an empirical survey among researchers in Germany" in which you have identified and argued for an important research gap. I really enjoyed reading the manuscript and my main comments and suggestions below are merely about elaborating and developing your text a bit more.

Consider the following in your revision of the paper:

INTRODUCTION

In the section SOCIETAL IMPACT IN RESEARCH p 10 ff you may problematize and position your study

more by (i) a deeper description existing research of the different concepts of academic knowledge

creation see e.g., Olsson et al 2020, (2020). A conceptual model for university-society

research collaboration facilitating societal impact for local innovation. European Journal of Innovation

Management. https://doi-org.ezproxy.server.hv.se/10.1108/EJIM-04-2020-0159 and (ii) earlier

research on measuring and defining research impact e.g., De Jong, et al (2014) “Understanding

societal impact through productive interactions: CT research as a case”, Research Evaluation, Vol. 23

No. 2, pp. 89-102; Greenhalgh, T., Jackson, C. et al (2016), “Achieving research impact through co-

creationin community-based health services: literature review and case study”, The Milbank

Quarterly, Vol. 94 No. 2, pp. 392-429; Matsumoto, M., et al (2010), “Development of a model to estimate the economic impacts of R&D output of public research institutes”, R & D Management, Vol. 40 No. 1, pp. 91-100. Issues of co-creation in university-society collaboration is also something you may find interesting see e.g., Larsson, J. and Holmberg, J. (2018), “Learning while creating value for sustainability transitions: the case of challenge lab at Chalmers university of technology”, Journal of Cleaner Production, Vol. 172, pp. 4411-4420, and Olsson et al 2020 as above.

AIM – there is a slight difference between the aim on page 5 and page 19.

RQ1 includes the words engagement, evaluation and press departments that need further explanation and linked to earlier research in the introduction section.

This is also reoccurring in the Method section p. 7 as the importance of communication and

performance of communication department- is there any earlier research on these aspects then it should be mentioned in the Introduction.

P. 6 define status in the individual dimension.

P. 12 The status groups -presented differently throughout the paper. A logical presentation of the groups is recommended along with an early definition in the paper of how you define a ‘researcher’.

The age of 18 seem to be very young to be included in the group of researchers?

Methodology and results are presented and illustrated in a proper way.

Fig 1 Institutional types- may the categories by merged into three categories instead?

The manuscript ends with a Discussion – add Conclusion in the heading or add another subsection entitled Conclusion. There are very few references in your Discussion. Return to your earlier refences in the Introductions section and compare your findings to earlier research.

Good luck with your revision!

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Reviewer #1:  Yes:  Juha-Pekka Lauronen

Reviewer #2: No

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Author response to Decision Letter 0

Dear Dr. Rozylowicz, dear colleagues,

we were delighted about the positive and helpful reviews we received. We substantially revised the manuscript accordingly.

Submitted filename: response_PONE-D-21-03474.docx

Decision Letter 1

28 May 2021

PONE-D-21-03474R1

How Do Researchers Approach Societal Impact?

The revision greatly improved the paper, and both reviewers had positive comments. However, there is a need for some minor adjustments for greater clarity and better reproducibility. Please try to include the suggestions in your paper, and, if not suitable, please answer in detail why. Also, please proofread the paper carefully before submitting it.

Please submit your revised manuscript by Jul 12 2021 11:59PM. If you will need more time than this to complete your revisions, please reply to this message or contact the journal office at gro.solp@enosolp . When you're ready to submit your revision, log on to https://www.editorialmanager.com/pone/ and select the 'Submissions Needing Revision' folder to locate your manuscript file.

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Please review your reference list to ensure that it is complete and correct. If you have cited papers that have been retracted, please include the rationale for doing so in the manuscript text, or remove these references and replace them with relevant current references. Any changes to the reference list should be mentioned in the rebuttal letter that accompanies your revised manuscript. If you need to cite a retracted article, indicate the article’s retracted status in the References list and also include a citation and full reference for the retraction notice.

1. If the authors have adequately addressed your comments raised in a previous round of review and you feel that this manuscript is now acceptable for publication, you may indicate that here to bypass the “Comments to the Author” section, enter your conflict of interest statement in the “Confidential to Editor” section, and submit your "Accept" recommendation.

Reviewer #1: (No Response)

Reviewer #2: All comments have been addressed

2. Is the manuscript technically sound, and do the data support the conclusions?

3. Has the statistical analysis been performed appropriately and rigorously?

4. Have the authors made all data underlying the findings in their manuscript fully available?

5. Is the manuscript presented in an intelligible fashion and written in standard English?

6. Review Comments to the Author

Reviewer #1: PONE-D-21-03474R1

The paper and its methodical choices have improved significantly, and that is why, I suggest only some minor revisions by pointing out small possible improvements and recommendations. The study design still has some minor questions related to validity and reliability, which could be clarified and elaborated more. The findings and conclusions of the study are a bit trivial because they do not debate openly with the previous literature and the background literature of the study. Connection to the previous debate could elevate the substantial value of the paper.

1. Pretests: The authors explain that they have done pretests for reliability, but they do not elaborate what result the test provided for reliability, though they explain what they did based on those tests.

2. In the sample design, the authors describe that they selected the universities based on number of students. Why do they not rely it on researchers, teachers and other staff of scholars when the study is about researchers’ attitudes?

3. In the page 19, the expression sounds ambiguous: “Fewer researchers, but still many,…”

4. In the results section (RQ 1) the authors conclude that: “It is noteworthy that researchers (especially at universities) do not think that knowledge transfer plays an important role at their institution and that institutional communication departments are reaching relevant societal stakeholders. From this, we infer that societal impact is understood as an individual task for which there is no institutional mandate.

It is a bit unclear in this argument whether it means understanding of these institutions or the understanding of the researchers in the survey. If this means only the research staff’s attitudes, I suggest to formulate the conclusion differently, so that it is clear that it describes only the staff’s believes. Of course these two dimensions could be compared preferably.

This conclusion of neglected organizational aspects of impact requires information about the actual knowledge transfer activities of the survey institutions, and how much emphasis they have on impact evaluation and practices. Now the authors provide information about general policy recommendations and considerations, but this does not describe what kind of practices the universities have regarding impact requirements, their organization and evaluation, and their relationship with the survey attitudes.

Perhaps, the authors could provide some basic information of how impact is considered in the university and research work in Germany.

5. The claim “but these were chosen by less than 10% of the respondents

and are therefore excluded” is mentioned twice in the same context.

6. In the results (RQ2), the authors claim that “It is striking that the disciplinary groups have quite different impact profiles: Scholars from the humanities tend to have culture- and discourse-oriented goals, social scientists have discourse-, social-justice-, and policy-oriented goals, and natural scientists have technology-, health-, and environment-oriented goals.

This claim is one of the main results in the paper. However, there is nothing striking in this argument according to common knowledge of disciplinary practices and recent studies on research impact and public engagement. Perhaps, the authors could emphasize how these findings support previous understanding of the characteristics of these disciplines and their public engagement.

7. Then the authors conclude that: “From this, we conclude that societal goals are best explained by the disciplinary backgrounds of researchers.”

Because several authors have already pointed out this argument in recent literature (e.g. Benneworth) and in older classics (e.g. Weiss), the authors could elaborate this statement by linking it to recent literature, which is worried about impact policies neglecting such disciplinary goals and their importance.

8. The results (RQ3) bring out education offerings as an important perception of impact. I was wondering why this does not seem to consider the education of the institutions themselves, as they provide a great number of new graduates for employment each year.

9. Usually some sort of limits of the study should be brought out in the conclusions.

10. The conclusions seem a bit unfinished. Maybe the main conclusion is that disciplines have had their own impact goals in relation to contemporary society all along, and now all the responsibilities are suddenly pressured against researchers without proper institutional structures. On the other hand, what are the impact goals of the organizations and do they correspond to disciplines’ goals? As I pointed out in the sixth comment, linking the findings to recent studies on the disputes about impact goals and neglection of disciplinary goals, to older discussion about the difference between research utilization of various academic fields and to the structural/organizational levels of research impact could benefit and increase the value of the paper.

10. The authors point out: certain mismatch between individual and institutional commitment. However, what are the actual institutional demands from individuals?

11. I find this interesting: "Humanities scholars especially use social media to communicate results."

Perhaps, the authors could speculate a bit why the survey has such a surprising result.

12. This is unclear: researchers have teaching obligations not faced by those at independent institutes and thus less time for engagement activities. However, researchers from applied universities typically have a higher teaching workload.

What does this mean regarding engagement activities?

13. I find this statement unnecessary, as the paper clearly has a normative tone: While our results are mainly of a descriptive nature and we do not make normative assumptions about the subject of our research (i.e. “it is good to have more impact…

14. “The findings further suggest that, where applicable, organizational factors (e.g., institutional investments in transfer, training offerings, support infrastructures) should be more strongly incorporated into assessments of societal impact”

I don’t understand how the authors came to this conclusions. Why should they be part of assessments of impact? Why is impact assessment the perfect way to promote public engagement? There are also other ways to organize and promote knowledge in society.

15. This gives a misleading impression that innovation is same than impact: “In addition, we suggest that national innovation systems should be studied comparatively in order to understand the impact of policies and to study more closely the relationship between transfer practices and societal impact in specific disciplines.”

Some minor notions:

- “An example of this is Jong et al.'s concept of productive interactions…”

Productive interactions is a concept of Spaapen and van Drooge (2011).

- “According to Bornmann, three main strands of societal impact can be distinguished:”.

This is probably de Jong et al. (2014) interpretation based on Bornmann’s conceptualization.

- The instrument: “Nevertheless, as researchers’ expressions of impact, they provide a suitable textual data basis for developing goal and format categories”

Some studies (Watermeyer et al.) have shown that the REF case studies construct unsophisticated imaginaries of impact. This problematics could be mentioned regarding the evaluation competition.

Reviewer #2: (No Response)

7. PLOS authors have the option to publish the peer review history of their article ( what does this mean? ). If published, this will include your full peer review and any attached files.

Author response to Decision Letter 1

14 Jun 2021

Again, thank you for this valuable and constructive feedback which we feel added substantially to the quality of the paper!

Submitted filename: Response_to_reviewers_PONE-D-21-03474.docx

Decision Letter 2

18 Jun 2021

PONE-D-21-03474R2

We’re pleased to inform you that your manuscript has been judged scientifically suitable for publication and will be formally accepted for publication once it meets all outstanding technical requirements.

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A List of 470 Powerful Social Issues Essay Topics

In modern societies, people do everything to live peacefully. Still, tensions often arise. We call them social issues when they start negatively impacting a specific group of people. Poverty, discrimination, and addiction are examples of such problems. We need to confront them to ensure equal treatment for everyone.

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Our professional custom writing team created this article to help you write a social issues essay. This comprehensive social issues topics list covers various current problems in America and in the world. Choose among 450 social topics, and get down to writing!

• 🔝 Top 10 Topics

✅ How to Write About Social Issues

• 🌐 Social Media Issues Topics
• 🏥 Health-Related Issues
• 🌳 Environmental Issues
• 🔫 War & Violence
• 🚓 Police & Criminal Justice
• 👨👩 Gender-Related Issues
• 🧔🏿 Racism Topics
• ✈️ Migration & Refugees
• ⚖️ Human Rights Topics
• 🗽 Social Issues in America

🔝 Top 10 Social Issues Topics

• Types of prisoner rights violations.
• Can vaccinations be mandatory?
• What makes overpopulation a threat?
• Online education as a cause of obesity.
• The economic effect of rising sea levels.
• The effects of Gender Pay Gap on economy.
• Ways to stop racial discrimination in schools.
• Can increase of employment help reduce poverty?
• Women empowerment and social development.
• Can mobile clinics make healthcare more accessible?

Writing on topics related to social issues involves thorough research. It also requires sympathy and tact. Following this guide will help you not to step on anybody’s toes.

• Research papers call for an in-depth analysis. Make sure to reference several sources to back up your claims.
• Essays revolve around your opinion. Here, good arguments are crucial.
• Pick the topic . It can be either contemporary or historical. It’s better to choose something you’re interested in. If nothing comes to mind right away, use a writing topic generator .
• Do research . Consult encyclopedias, find books on the topic. It will help you formulate ideas and outline the first draft.
• Consider your audience . How much do they know about your subject? How invested are they? Understanding your readers will help you be more considerate.
• Even if you have strong feelings about your subject, keep your tone neutral. Make sure not to condemn those who hold opposite views.
• Highlight what you personally think is right. Remember that you can’t control how other people will react.
• Be frank. Ask yourself: who am I? How do my experiences fit into my topic? Your honest answers will add unique insights to your paper.
• Double-check your paper. Does everything you wrote logically flow? Does your argumentative structure make sense? Does it support your thesis? If possible, let your assignment sit for a day. You can edit it later with a fresh perspective.

These are the basics you need if you want to write about social issues. Now you can start your research! The first step is to pick one of the excellent topics about social problems from the list below.

🌐 Social Issues Essay Topics Related to Social Media

• Security issues of social media .
• Should Instagram be age-restricted?
• Social networks’ impact on friendships.
• Disadvantages of being an influencer .
• Is there freedom of speech in social media?
• Should social media ban fake information?
• How harmful is social media dependency?
• Should employers check employees’ accounts?
• Online ethics and business Facebook accounts.
• The effect of the cancel culture on mental health.
• Cyberbullying: victim and abuser in the online environment.
• Should children be allowed to have social media accounts?
• Your opinion on memorial pages on social networks for the deceased.
• Ways to stay safe on the internet.

• How should social media websites deal with hate speech ?
• Is removing abusive content censorship?
• Explore the correlation between social media and mental disorders.
• Does Instagram change the way we perceive our lives?
• Is modern society forcing us to participate in social networking ?
• What is identity theft ?
• Personal isolation and technology in communication.
• The risks of microtransactions in online gaming .
• How does your digital presence influence your real life?
• Why do some people become dependent on social media ?
• Are online networks promoting stalking ?
• Discuss the digital divide in Washington.
• Is Twitter’s cancel culture doing more harm than good?
• How do marginalized groups benefit from social media?
• How important is data safety?
• Are people on social media more aggressive than in real life?
• Does the internet shorten our attention span ?
• Ways in which social media impacts your interactions with other people.
• Marketing, social media, and you: how do influencers impact your buying behavior?
• Explore the effect of the internet on students’ lives.
• Is Reddit right to allow outrageous content under the principle of free speech ?
• Politics and Twitter: the consequences of Donald Trump’s tweets .
• Does banning online networks from the workplace increase productivity?
• What basic ethical principles go overboard on the Internet ?
• In how far do social media trends reflect on the general public?
• Social media and youth: does it make puberty harder?
• The influence of social media platforms on democracy.
• What would happen if we could rate everyone online? (Think Community ’s episode “App Development and Condiments”)
• Does Instagram inspire a healthy lifestyle ?
• Why are likes so important?
• Debate the effects of speaking out in online communities.
• Are Facebook’s profile picture frames a good way of showing support?
• Debate social media policies and code of conduct.
• Is YouTube spreading propaganda?
• Did you ever do something because you’ve read about it on the internet?
• Are Twitter hashtags skewing the political discourse?
• Examine the gendered experiences of people on the internet.
• How do you make yourself heard on social media?
• Evaluate the usefulness of Facebook’s Safety Check feature.
• Discuss the pros and cons of TikTok challenges.
• How does participating in Instagram challenges for social justice help?

🏥 Health-Related Social Issues Topics to Write About

Our health largely depends on the social security system. With access to good healthcare services, we are less likely to develop preventable diseases. Unfortunately, issues are common in the health sector. These interesting essay writing prompts will help you explore social problems related to health:

• Are employers not paying enough attention to their employees’ mental health ?
• What should a person do if they can’t afford medical treatment?
• Why do some countries have higher obesity rates than others?
• Should abortion be legal or illegal?
• Debate whether a ban on tobacco advertising would help decrease smoking.
• What makes Americans start doing drugs ?
• Compare projects that help people overcome their addictions .
• What is the worst substance to be addicted to?
• Who should care for the elders ?
• Should hospices be free?
• Examine why HIV in seniors remains widely unrecognized.
• Should we change the drinking age limit?
• Whose health is mostly affected by pollution ?
• Should parents avoid vaccinating their children?
• What does it mean to die with dignity ?
• Should women get extra vacation days at work because of their periods?
• Explore the origins of the pro-life movement .
• Should non-smokers receive additional break time?
• Ways to make navigating easier for visually impaired people .
• Discuss stigma against mentally challenged individuals.
• The benefits of over-the-counter contraception.
• Must women who breastfeed in public cover themselves up?
• Psychoactive drugs in the treatment of psychological diseases.
• Disabilities and stigmatization: how does being disabled affect one’s social status?
• Does gender play an important role in one’s health?
• What health issues are affecting African Americans and Hispanics?
• Expectations and motherhood: being a childfree woman in a kid-centered society.
• How does being malnourished affect a child’s psyche in the long run?
• Investigate suicide rates in Pakistan.
• Discuss the social acceptance of autism spectrum disorders .
• Sociology and psychological diseases: the relationship between circumstance and mental health.
• Write about fad diets and their impact.
• How does the society you live in discriminate against older adults?
• Why is access to quality healthcare unevenly distributed?
• Who should decide when to stop life-prolonging treatments?
• Is homeopathic treatment for children acceptable?
• Describe why going to psychotherapy is widely stigmatized.
• What are the social determinants of health?
• Why is access to healthcare in rural areas so scarce?
• Is the propagation of mindfulness and self-care on social media improving our health?

• Examine the connection between poverty and health problems.
• Where does our society’s general obsession with weight come from?
• Do cultural norms promote drinking alcohol to an unhealthy extent?
• Is coffee a drug?
• How does the depiction of drug use in the media influence the youth?

🌳 Environmental Social Issues Essay Topics

Environmentalism is not just about saving nature. A damaged environment has adverse effects on humanity and its future. Changing weather and frequent natural disasters affect millions of people. Many are forced to flee their homes. Essays on this subject can cover activism or sustainability.

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• Is Extinction Rebellion’s form of protest too radical?
• What to avoid when traveling in the age of climate change .
• How can we ensure global access to drinking water ?
• The impact of bottled water on the environment.
• Water conservation methods in sub-Saharan Africa.
• The influence of tourism on cultural heritage sites.
• How does society need to change in the future to slow down climate change ?
• What caused the rise in climate activism in recent years?
• Innovation vs. tradition: getting traditional farmers to implement new sustainable technology.
• Describe the importance of waste reduction for our ecosystems.
• How can we use our natural resources responsibly?
• Discuss what a sustainable diet is like.
• The role of packaging in marketing, food safety, and environment.
• Why do people deny human-made climate change ?
• Why should sociologists study the environment?
• What made us reliant on single-use plastic products?
• Discuss green infrastructure in water management.
• Debate how Greenpeace influences political decision making.
• In your opinion, what’s the best environmental organization to donate to?
• How successful is PETA in helping animals?
• Should mandatory volunteer work substitute compulsory military service?
• Urban gardening as a means to ensure food security .
• The effect of self-driving electric vehicles on urban environments.
• Compare types of sustainable futuristic cities in literature.
• How does global warming impact indigenous peoples in South America?
• What effects does a deteriorating environment have on labor conditions?
• Explain what Oxfam does.
• How does globalization impact sustainable agriculture?
• What are the most significant achievements of environmental activists in recent years?
• What makes politicians hesitant to take action against climate change ?
• Investigate what happened to the population of Isle de Jean Charles.
• Climate refugees: examine the disasters that cause people to flee their homes.
• What are the unintentional consequences of climate-related relocation projects?
• Explore the connection between nature and religion.
• Ecology and economics: ways to find a balance.
• Communities and health: how the way we handle the environment impacts the spread of disease.
• Investigate methods for responsible consumption.
• Why is sustainable development important for societies?

• Contrast the methods of various environmentalist movements.
• The world’s overpopulation: causes and effects.
• Why can it be difficult to convince older generations to take action against climate change ?
• What are the best things everyone can do to protect the environment ?
• The role of zoos in wildlife endangerment.
• How do changing weather patterns impact our homes?
• What caused the increase in natural disasters over the last decade?

🔫 Social Issues Topics: War & Violence

Scientists still debate if violence is a part of human nature. Wars and terrorist attacks are disastrous events that traumatize millions of people. Still, it’s crucial not to forget about more subtle forms of violence. These include emotional neglect, bullying, and brutality in medical care.

• What are the main reasons for nations to wage war?
• Mental disorders and vulnerability to homicidal death.
• The restoration of Germany after the Second World War.
• Domestic violence in 20th century Canada.
• Describe the most common types of violence against teenagers.
• How does a country’s political situation impact domestic violence ?
• Do splatter movies promote violent behavior ?
• Should girls dress modestly to avoid being abused?
• What is the use of war monuments?
• The issue of girl education in India.
• How does war influence the development of children?
• Analyze the accuracy of the events depicted in Sam Mendes’ film 1917 .
• Everything Quiet on the Western Front and the youth’s attitude towards fighting.
• The treatment of veterans in your community.
• Why do people join the army?
• Connection between school bullying and problems in adult life.
• What are the most common reasons for murder ?
• How can a family move on after their child has been kidnapped?
• Why are veterans more likely to commit suicide than average citizens?
• Is human trafficking modern-day slavery?
• Investigate how citizens of Cape Town deal with the high crime rate in their city.
• What events can lead to an increase in crime?
• Explain the socio-economic aftermaths of the Afghanistan war .
• Examine the success of Columbia’s DESEPAZ program.
• What is the origin of domestic violence?
• Do schools in your country work effectively to discourage abusive behavior towards girls?
• Why do men tend not to report domestic violence ?
• How does emotional neglect impact children?
• What are the best ways to prevent street violence?
• Is there a connection between the strictness of gun laws and homicide rates ?
• Why do women hesitate to report rape cases?
• Rape and sexual harassment in the military .
• An overview of Japanese mafia culture.
• The connection between education and violence.
• Who profits from war?
• Are the US military expenses justified?
• What does the “guns vs. butter” model describe?
• Give examples of cultural norms justifying violence.
• In how far has globalization impacted violent behavior ?
• What triggers aggression against healthcare workers?
• Ways to manage verbal abuse in social care.
• Examine the Chinese phenomenon of Yi Nao.
• Investigate the recent decriminalization of domestic abuse in Russia.
• What was the impact of the #metoo movement ?
• Bullying and sexual harassment at workplace.

🚓 Police & Criminal Justice Topics to Write About

Everyone should feel safe in their community. That’s what a country’s criminal justice system is for. But humans can make mistakes and be biased. Not everyone feels protected by the current system. What can we do to change that? Explore this question in one of the following creative topics:

• What does the phrase “ defund the police ” mean?
• What makes you feel safe in your community?
• Describe the social standing of police officers in your country.
• Examine if there’s evidence of structural racism in the police.
• Is it possible to achieve true equality ?
• Are all professions in criminal justice equally prestigious?
• Discuss the concept of juvenile crimes.
• Debate castration as a punishment for sexual offenders.
• The influence of the internet on human trafficking .
• What could the police be substituted with?
• How does racial profiling work?
• Should people who abuse drugs go to jail?
• How do people become homeless in big cities?
• Discuss the legitimization of prostitution.
• What causes governments to oppose gay marriage ?
• The safest ways to deescalate riots.
• What are the best methods to discourage people from committing crimes ?
• Define civil disobedience and its goals.
• Victimology and traditional justice system alternatives.
• What makes white-collar crimes more socially acceptable than others?
• Reintroducing prisoners to society: obstacles and consequences.
• Would society profit from the abolition of prisons?
• What are the advantages of community services ?

• How does crime differ in various social classes?
• Justice for women: the legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
• How do prejudices influence criminal justice mechanics?
• Human services issues from the point of income inequality.
• Why was the Hong Kong national security law installed?
• How did legalizing all drugs affect Portuguese society?
• What are the prominent civil rights issues in your country?
• The Captain of Köpenick : the psychological effect of uniforms.
• Why was racial segregation widely accepted in America?
• How do witness protection programs work?
• The right to privacy vs. safety: a case for surveillance cameras.
• How can one save their reputation after committing a crime?
• Compare the four deviance theories in sociology .
• To what extent can biology explain criminal behavior ?
• Do police officers need guns?
• Should law enforcers need to request permission before using firearms ?
• How did dismantling the police department in Camden, NJ impact crime?
• Explore the connection between militarization and police violence.
• What does the principle of qualified immunity entail?
• Debate the use of body cameras by police officers .
• Police violence and subterfuge.
• What are the social benefits of jury duty?

👨👩 Gender-Related Social Issues Essay Topics

Even today, a lot of people are systematically disadvantaged because of their gender. This problem manifests itself not only in the infamous gender pay gap. For example, in the US, transgender people are banned from serving in the army. And in some countries, women are still denied fundamental rights. If you want to get to the heart of contemporary controversial issues, this section is for you.

• Why is the number of women in positions of power still low?
• Are quotas the only way to guarantee equal hiring processes?
• Pros and cons of unisex bathrooms.
• Why are matriarchal societies rare?
• Describe how the patriarchy holds back women.
• Conflicting theories: gay marriage and feminism.
• Does feminism need to be radical?
• How does gendered marketing affect child development ?
• Should insurance companies pay for sex reassignment therapy?
• Reasons why some people have problems with they/them pronouns.
• What does it mean to be non-binary?
• Investigate the treatment of women in Saudi Arabian society .
• What makes a profession traditionally female?
• Should women be more encouraged to join the military ?
• Why is it more challenging for men to get full custody ?
• Find historical examples of women who made a change in their society.
• Should professors be required to include more women authors in their reading material?
• Examine the treatment of the transgender community in healthcare.
• Is gender a purely social construct?
• What can a woman do to become more empowered ?
• Can a patriarchal society ever achieve true gender equality ?
• Are Disney princesses good role models?
• Examine the representation of gender variety in popular TV shows.
• Gender identity: promotion of equality for sexual orientation.
• Discuss the connection between gender-biased language and oppression.
• Why are sexist marketing practices still legal?
• Should girls capitalize on their attractive looks?
• Define the term “gender blindness.”
• Do school uniforms promote gender inequality?
• Bibiana Steinhaus: a female referee.
• Discuss how the battle of the sexes impacted society.
• Should men be entitled to more extended paternity leave ?
• Can religion ensure equality?
• How do stereotypes against women decrease their chances of getting hired?
• Why do millions of women still have to choose between having a family or a career?
• Explain the gender dynamics in development.
• Should men and women play and compete in mixed sports teams?
• What do beauty pageants teach girls?
• Debate the importance of LGBT studies.
• What causes gender dysphoria?
• Do blockbuster films have the responsibility to advocate for equality?
• Does society need gender roles to function properly?
• What makes same-sex marriage a controversial topic in many countries?
• Examine adoption laws for gay couples.
• Compare gender-based violence in the UK vs. Iran.

🧔🏿 Social Topics for Essays on Racism

Slavery is abolished everywhere in the world. Still, it didn’t put an end to racism. There’s a lot of racial bias fueled by insecurity and ignorance. Because of this, ethnic minorities rarely enjoy equal opportunities. An essay on racism can raise awareness of the problem by shedding light on racial injustice.

• How has racism changed over the past hundred years?
• Queer of color: history and theory.
• Who were the Khmer Rouge ?
• Trace the development of anti-discrimination laws in your country.
• What caused populist groups to gain popularity in recent years?
• Did Donald Trump’s presidency increase racism towards Latin Americans?
• What socio-economic issues do African American families face?
• Is there a connection between racism and social progress?
• Would there be no racism without colonialism ?
• Discuss subtle forms of everyday racism.
• Should women in teaching positions be allowed to wear hijabs ?
• Nelson Mandela and the fight against apartheid .
• What makes people scared of minorities ?
• Who benefits from structural racism ?
• Find out how racism manifests itself in your native language.
• Compare the types of social segmentation.
• Is the use of the n-word in hip hop empowering?
• How did imperialism impact Okonkwo’s life in Things Fall Apart ?
• In which areas of life are black Americans institutionally disadvantaged?
• Is it appropriate for white people to wear hoop earrings?
• The best ways to educate children about race.
• How does cultural appropriation become harmful?
• Racial prejudice in the movie industry.

• Your position on companies renaming well-known brands to avoid claims of racism .
• Discuss the problem of racism at institutional and interactional levels.
• Will racism ever end?
• Is “All lives matter” a racist statement?
• How does environmental racism affect the living conditions of minorities?
• Investigate the historical persecution of the Romani people.
• What makes people racist nowadays?
• The internet’s contribution to alleviating racism.
• Cultivation of racism in the American society.
• How much of a problem is reverse discrimination?
• Trace the history of lynching and mob violence against blacks in the American South.
• Who was Leo Frank?
• How does discrimination differ in rich vs. developing countries?
• Racism as a barrier to educational opportunities.
• Does social media help fight racist bias?
• How to responsibly handle classic movies and literature with racial prejudices .
• What constitutes a healthy national identity ?
• How does modern television portray minorities ?
• Does your country’s healthcare system disadvantage minorities ?
• Investigate what happens to the Rohingya people in Malaysia.
• Is antisemitism still a problem in your country?
• Does nationalism always lead to racism?

✈️ Social Awareness Topics on Migration & Refugees

Migration can have a beneficial effect on a host country’s economy. For instance, migrants can provide vital additional workforce. But an overflow of newcomers can also lead to problems. Most notably, it affects a nations’ cultural and social landscapes. “How should we deal with refugees?” is one of the most challenging political questions today.

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• How has migration changed over the past 20 years?
• Mexican immigration as a political controversy.
• Why do migrants from the Middle East face more prejudice than those from Central Europe?
• Describe the types of events that can cause major forced displacement .
• How should governments plan for migration?
• Why do many people in Europe have a negative attitude towards refugees ?
• Why are foreign workers important to every nation’s economy?
• Effective ways to integrate displaced people.
• Critique Arizona’s new immigration laws.
• Have refugee camps ever been a solution to the problem?
• What drives people to immigrate illegally ?
• Should the US’ sanctuary cities be dissolved?
• Describe the notion of ecological migration.
• Should Europe take in more refugees ?
• Compare resettlement models in Canada vs. Australia.
• What’s the difference between expats and migrants?
• What factors make illegal immigration undesirable?
• Has the public perception of migrants changed over the past years?
• How important is it that immigrants speak their host country’s language?
• What does social integration ideally consist of?
• Discuss Chinese settlement patterns in America.
• The advantages of dropping visa restrictions.
• How did 9/11 affect the public’s perception of the global movement?
• Is it morally right to marry someone just for their passport?
• Do illegal immigrants negatively impact their host country’s society?
• Does migration cause destabilization?
• What does the claim “no one is illegal” advocate?
• How does the American green card lottery work?
• Should a child born in a foreign country automatically receive citizenship ?
• American society wouldn’t exist without immigration . Why is it still so hostile towards foreigners?
• Explore the link between global movement and the spread of diseases.
• Should the government use taxpayer money to upskill refugees ?
• Immigrants in Toronto: social and economic challenges.
• Can expats from a distinct cultural background ever integrate into a country that doesn’t share their norms?
• Discuss the importance of diversity to society.
• Is there a connection between immigration rates and crime?
• Should expats be eligible for welfare programs ?
• Where’s the line between cultural appropriation and integration?
• Can binational relationships work?
• How do you become a stateless person?
• What rights do asylum seekers have in your country?
• Is immigration from developing countries a threat to wealthier nations?
• Explore moral panics associated with other ethnicities.
• What makes Europe attractive to expats?
• Describe the common prejudices refugees have to face in Australia.

⚖️ Social Justice Essay Topics on Human Rights

You probably agree that every human deserves access to fundamental rights. Unfortunately, these are continually under threat. And it doesn’t always happen far away from you. Women, the LGBT community, and many others fight for their rights every single day.

• Are limitations of human rights during crises justified?
• Should we strive to achieve the same rights globally?
• Is male circumcision shortly after birth a violation of human rights?
• How do you prevent low-income families from sending their children to work ?
• Capital punishment vs. the right to live.
• Can dictatorships ensure human rights ?

• Is using sensitive language incriminating our freedom of speech?
• Describe the achievements of Amnesty International.
• Should Europe stop business interactions with countries that violate human rights ?
• Examine effective ways to combat food shortages in the Global South.
• How can governments secure freedom of speech ?
• Should access to the internet be included as a fundamental human right?
• Are restrictive laws concerning hijabs violating religious freedom ?
• Charlie Hebdo and its Muhammad cartoons: did they go too far?
• When does satire become harmful?
• Examine how human rights are treated in the pornography industry.
• Why are LGBT people around the world not granted the same rights as everyone else?
• Balancing labor conditions and demand: human rights in the economy.
• Who protects stateless persons?
• What has changed since the first declaration of human rights?
• How was slavery justified back in the day?
• Why do women in many countries still not have the same rights as men?
• The Handmaid’s Tale : how is the society in Gilead structured?
• Discuss how vital the rights to freedom of thought and expression are.
• To which rights should prisoners have access to?
• Debate the fairness of the utilitarian approach.
• How do NGOs help to ensure human rights in Somalia?
• Human rights and the Bible : how does the church get away with violations?
• Define different perspectives on what constitutes freedom .
• What are the most significant human rights issues today?
• Ethics and the media: exploiting personal tragedies for attention.
• Prisoners are humans, too: rights violations in Guantanamo.
• Is combating climate change a human rights issue?
• Are cruel traditions such as honor killings justified if they are socially accepted?
• How successful is the European Commission of Human Rights?
• Is the death penalty a justified measure nowadays?
• Should pets have the same rights as humans?
• Define the difference between civil and human rights.
• If there’s gay pride, why shouldn’t there be straight pride?
• Unequal privilege: legal, religious, and social factors.
• What would happen if education were free and accessible to everyone?
• State terrorism vs. critical terrorism.
• Did globalization make us freer?
• Is the wellbeing of the majority more important than the wellbeing of a minority?
• When, if ever, should men and women have different rights?

🗽 Current Social Issues Topics in America

With its variety of races and cultures, America faces many social issues. Its deeply divided political parties add more fuel to the fire. African American rights and police brutality are some of the most pressing issues in the US today.

• Consequences of fortifying the American-Mexican border wall.
• Should illegal immigrants always be deported when found?
• Is the democratic system in the US in need of reform?
• What are the social causes of obesity in the USA?
• Negative side effects of the war on drugs .
• How important is bipartisan cooperation?
• What difference does it make if Russia meddled in the 2016 elections?
• Police brutality: reasons and countermeasures.
• Discuss the importance of reducing medical costs.
• Racism and the police: is it an institutional problem?
• What are the strictest cultural taboos in American society?
• Are there enough women in American leadership positions?
• Is sexism a significant problem in the States?
• Describe the consequences of voter fraud.
• Should schools teach students to be more patriotic ?
• Discuss prescription drug abuse in America.
• College student debt : is it a fair price to pay for a good education?
• Will police presence in schools help curb violence?
• What drugs should be legalized vs. remain illegal?
• Debate the quality of political education in your state.
• Is fake news a severe problem?
• Financial literacy as a compulsory subject in high school.
• How do you destigmatize taboo topics in society?
• Why do conversations about periods make people feel uncomfortable?
• Social causes of eating disorders in adults.
• Discuss how various religions can live together peacefully.
• Describe the NIMBY phenomenon.
• What are the benefits and limitations of needle exchange programs?
• Find reasons why peaceful protests turn into violent riots.
• Are students in the US nowadays under too much stress ?
• What are the harmful effects of urban sprawl ?
• Can your vote make a difference?
• Do American schools need to offer better sex education classes?
• What makes people believe the Earth is flat ?
• Why do conspiracy theories spread so quickly nowadays?
• Traffic in California: reasons to invest in public transport.
• Are charter schools better than public schools?
• Compare the most prominent social movements currently active in America.
• The legacy of Occupy Wall Street.
• Describe the pros and cons of the Green New Deal.
• How successful is special education in the US?
• What causes gentrification in American cities?
• Is immigration a strain on the American job market ?
• Tackle the problem of prison overcrowding.
• Investigate the effects of ableism in the States.

That’s all we’ve got for you. We hope this article was helpful. Good luck with your essay writing!

You might also be interested in:

• 512 Research Topics on HumSS (Humanities & Social Sciences)
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• 480 Sociology Questions & Topics with Bonus Tips
• 560 Unique Controversial Topics & Tips for a Great Essay
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🔍 References

• Lifestyles & Social Issues: Encyclopedia Britannica
• Controversial/Contemporary Issues: How to Write a Research Paper: Campbell University
• 3 Insights Into Writing about Social Issues: Jane Friedman
• Key Issues: eSafety Commissioner
• Top 10 Most Common Health Issues: University of Rochester Medical Center
• Top 10 Most Important Environmental Issues: Iberdrola.com
• War: Social Problems: University of Minnesota
• Violence: a Global Public Health Problem: WHO
• What Are the Biggest Problems Women Face Today?: Politico Magazine
• Issues: National Center for Transgender Equality
• List of Issues about Racism: The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
• Potential implications of Increasing Significance of Migration: EU
• The Biggest Issues Facing Migrants Today — and What We Can Do to Solve Them: World Economic Forum
• How Americans See Major National Issues: Pew Research Center
• Social Issues and Human Rights: United Nations Environment
• Crime & Criminal Justice: Brookings
• Social Problems: Oxford Academic Press
• Criminal Justice: ProPublica
• Structural Racism in America: Urban Institute
• Racism and Health: American Public Health Association
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There are many ways to define popular culture. Here’s one of them: pop culture includes mainstream preferences in society within a specific time frame. It covers fashion, music, language, and even food. Pop culture is always evolving, engaging in new trends, and leaving the old ones behind.

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Top Social Science Research Topics: Exploring the Dynamics of Society in 2023

Social science research topics encompass a vast array of subjects that delve into the intricate dynamics of human behavior, societal structures, and the complexities of the world we inhabit. The field of social science provides a rich tapestry of disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, and economics, which collectively contribute to our understanding of social phenomena.

Through rigorous inquiry and investigation, social science research seeks to unravel the intricacies of social processes, shed light on societal issues, and inform policies and interventions that foster positive change.

The exploration of social science research topics serves multiple purposes. It allows us to gain insights into the diverse facets of human life, ranging from social inequalities and gender roles to cultural diversity and political ideologies.

By studying these topics, we can better comprehend the nuances of our society, identify patterns and trends, and propose solutions to the challenges we face.

Definition of social science research

Table of Contents

Social science research refers to the systematic and empirical investigation of social phenomena, human behavior, and societal structures using scientific methods and approaches. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, economics, and more.

Importance of social science research

Social science research is of paramount importance due to its significant contributions to our understanding of human behavior, societal dynamics, and the complexities of the world we live in. It plays a vital role in various aspects of society, informing policies, interventions, and decision-making processes. Here are some key reasons highlighting the importance of social science research:

Understanding Society

Social science research helps us gain insights into the functioning of societies, social structures, and cultural norms. It enables us to comprehend social phenomena, such as social inequality, gender roles, cultural diversity, and political ideologies. By examining these aspects, we can better understand the challenges and opportunities that societies face.

Evidence-Based Decision Making

Social science research provides empirical evidence and data-driven insights that guide policy-making and decision-making processes. It helps policymakers, organizations, and institutions make informed choices by providing evidence on the effectiveness of interventions, the impact of social policies, and the evaluation of program outcomes.

Addressing Social Issues

Social science research focuses on studying and addressing pressing social issues, such as poverty, inequality, discrimination, crime, health disparities, and environmental challenges. Through rigorous investigation, it identifies the root causes, consequences, and potential solutions to these complex problems, leading to more effective strategies for social change.

Advancing Knowledge

Social science research contributes to the advancement of knowledge within various disciplines, such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, and economics. It adds to the existing body of knowledge by challenging existing theories, proposing new perspectives, and generating innovative ideas. This knowledge advancement enables further exploration and understanding of human behavior and societal dynamics.

Promoting Social Justice and Equality

Social science research plays a critical role in promoting social justice, equality, and inclusivity. It uncovers patterns of discrimination, social disparities, and marginalization, shedding light on the experiences and challenges faced by marginalized communities. By highlighting these issues, social science research informs advocacy efforts, policy reforms, and social movements aimed at achieving a more just and equitable society.

Enhancing Well-Being

Social science research contributes to our understanding of individual and collective well-being. It explores factors influencing mental health, relationships, educational outcomes, economic stability, and overall quality of life. This knowledge helps shape interventions, programs, and policies that aim to improve the well-being of individuals and communities.

Informing Global Perspectives

Social science research provides insights into global issues, such as globalization, migration, climate change, and political conflicts. It helps us understand the interconnections between societies, cultures, and nations, fostering a global perspective and facilitating cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.

In summary, social science research plays a crucial role in understanding human behavior, addressing social challenges, promoting social justice, and informing policies and decision-making processes.

Its importance lies in its ability to generate knowledge, provide evidence-based insights, and contribute to positive social change, ultimately leading to the betterment of individuals and societies as a whole.

social science research topics

Have a close look at social-science research topics.

Study of society and social behavior

• Sociology is the scientific study of society, social interactions, and social structures.
• It examines how individuals and groups shape and are shaped by social processes, norms, and institutions.
• Sociologists use various research methods to explore social phenomena, including surveys, interviews, observations, and data analysis.

Research topics

Social inequality and its impact on marginalized communities.

• Investigating the causes and consequences of social inequality based on factors such as race, class, gender, and ethnicity.
• Examining the experiences of marginalized communities and their struggles for social justice and equal opportunities.
• Analyzing the role of institutions and policies in perpetuating or challenging social inequality.

Gender roles and their influence on societal norms

• Exploring the construction of gender identities and the expectations placed on individuals based on their gender.
• Investigating the impact of gender roles on individuals’ behaviors, aspirations, and opportunities.
• Examining how gender norms intersect with other social categories, such as race and class.

Social media and its effects on interpersonal relationships

• Studying the impact of social media platforms on communication patterns and the formation of online communities.
• Investigating the influence of social media on self-presentation, identity formation, and social interactions.
• Analyzing the potential benefits and drawbacks of social media usage in terms of social connections, mental health, and privacy.

Exploring these research topics in sociology allows us to gain insights into the social dynamics, power structures, and societal norms that shape our everyday lives. By understanding and addressing social inequalities, gender roles, and the impact of technology on relationships, sociologists contribute to creating more inclusive, equitable, and informed societies.

Study of human behavior and mental processes

• Psychology is the scientific study of the mind, behavior, and cognitive processes of individuals.
• It seeks to understand how people think, feel, and behave in various contexts, from individual experiences to social interactions.
• Psychologists employ a range of research methods, including experiments, surveys, observations, and clinical studies.

The influence of childhood experiences on adult mental health

• Investigating how early childhood experiences, such as attachment patterns, family dynamics, and trauma, shape individuals’ mental well-being in adulthood.
• Examining the long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on mental health outcomes and resilience.
• Exploring preventive interventions and therapeutic approaches to mitigate the impact of early-life experiences on mental health.

Understanding the factors contributing to addiction and substance abuse

• Examining the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of addictive behaviors.
• Investigating risk factors, such as genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and psychological vulnerabilities, for addiction.
• Exploring effective prevention strategies, treatment approaches, and recovery programs for individuals struggling with addiction.

Psychological effects of trauma and methods of recovery

• Studying the psychological impact of various types of trauma, including physical abuse, sexual assault, war, and natural disasters.
• Investigating the mechanisms underlying post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related psychological disorders.
• Examining evidence-based interventions and therapeutic techniques aimed at promoting trauma recovery and resilience.

By delving into these research topics in psychology, we deepen our understanding of human behavior, mental health, and well-being. Research in these areas helps inform prevention efforts, intervention strategies, and therapeutic approaches to support individuals’ mental health and recovery from trauma and addiction. Ultimately, psychological research contributes to improving individuals’ quality of life and promoting psychological well-being in society.

Anthropology

Study of human societies and cultures.

• Anthropology is the scientific study of human societies, cultures, and their development over time.
• It explores the diversity of human experiences, beliefs, practices, and social structures across different communities and time periods.
• Anthropologists employ various research methods, including ethnography, participant observation, interviews, and archival research.

Cultural diversity and its impact on social integration

• Investigating the role of cultural diversity in fostering social cohesion, understanding, and cooperation within multicultural societies.
• Examining the challenges and opportunities of integrating diverse cultural practices, values, and norms in education, healthcare, and public institutions.
• Exploring strategies for promoting inclusive and respectful intercultural dialogue and understanding.

Ethnographic studies of indigenous communities and their traditions

• Conducting in-depth ethnographic research to document the cultural practices, rituals, beliefs, and social structures of indigenous communities.
• Examining the impact of historical colonization, globalization, and modernization on indigenous cultures and identities.
• Collaborating with indigenous communities to preserve and revitalize their cultural heritage and address contemporary challenges.

The effects of globalization on cultural identity

• Investigating the ways in which globalization processes, such as migration, mass media, and transnational connections, influence cultural identities.
• Analyzing the dynamics of cultural hybridity, adaptation, and resistance in the face of global cultural flows.
• Examining the impacts of global consumerism, tourism, and cultural commodification on local traditions and practices.

Exploring these research topics in anthropology helps us understand the complexity of human cultures, the importance of cultural diversity, and the challenges faced by communities in a rapidly changing world.

Anthropological research contributes to fostering cultural understanding, promoting respect for different cultural perspectives, and supporting the preservation and revitalization of diverse cultural heritage.

Political Science

Study of political systems, institutions, and behavior.

• Political science is the systematic study of political processes, structures, and behavior at the individual, group, and societal levels.
• It examines the distribution of power, decision-making processes, and the functioning of political institutions and systems.
• Political scientists employ various research methods, including surveys, case studies, statistical analysis, and comparative analysis.

Analysis of political ideologies and their influence on policymaking

• Investigating different political ideologies, such as liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and their impact on policy formation and implementation.
• Analyzing how political ideologies shape public opinion, party platforms, and policy debates.
• Examining the role of political ideologies in shaping domestic and international policies, including economic, social, and environmental issues.

Comparative studies of democratic and authoritarian regimes

• Comparing and contrasting the characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses of democratic and authoritarian political systems.
• Investigating the factors that contribute to the stability or fragility of democratic institutions and the consolidation or erosion of authoritarian regimes.
• Analyzing the impact of political regimes on human rights, civil liberties, and governance effectiveness.

The role of social media in shaping political opinions and activism

• Examining the influence of social media platforms on political communication, public opinion formation, and electoral campaigns.
• Investigating the role of social media in mobilizing and organizing political protests, social movements, and activism.
• Analyzing the implications of social media algorithms, echo chambers, and online misinformation for democratic processes and political polarization.

Research in political science allows us to gain insights into the functioning of political systems, the dynamics of political behavior, and the impact of ideologies and media on politics.

By examining political ideologies, comparing different political systems, and studying the role of social media in politics, political scientists contribute to informed policy debates, democratic governance, and the understanding of political processes in contemporary societies.

Study of the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services

• Economics is the social science that examines how individuals, businesses, and governments allocate resources to satisfy their needs and wants.
• It analyzes the behavior and interactions of economic agents , such as consumers, producers, and policymakers.
• Economics employs various research methods, including statistical analysis, mathematical modeling, and experimental studies.

The impact of globalization on income inequality

• Investigating the effects of global economic integration on income distribution within and across countries.
• Analyzing how trade liberalization, foreign direct investment, and technological advancements influence income inequality.
• Examining the role of government policies, social protection programs, and labor market institutions in mitigating or exacerbating income disparities.

Behavioral economics and decision-making processes

• Studying how cognitive biases, heuristics, and social influences affect individual decision-making in economic contexts.
• Analyzing the implications of behavioral economics for consumer behavior, financial markets, and public policy.
• Investigating ways to design interventions and policies that nudge individuals towards making better economic decisions.

Economic growth and its relationship with environmental sustainability

• Examining the trade-offs between economic growth, resource consumption, and environmental degradation.
• Investigating the role of technological innovation, sustainable development strategies, and policy frameworks in achieving both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
• Analyzing the impacts of climate change, natural resource depletion, and pollution on long-term economic development.

Research in economics allows us to understand how societies allocate scarce resources, make economic decisions, and address societal challenges. By studying the impact of globalization on income inequality, behavioral factors in economic decision-making.

And the relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability, economists contribute to evidence-based policy-making, sustainable development, and the improvement of economic well-being for individuals and societies as a whole.

Research Methods in Social Science

Overview of common research methods used in social science.

• Social science research involves systematic investigation to gain knowledge and understanding of social phenomena.
• Common research methods in social science include surveys, experiments, interviews, observations, case studies, and content analysis.
• Researchers employ these methods to collect and analyze data, draw conclusions, and contribute to the body of knowledge in their respective fields.

Exploring quantitative and qualitative approaches

Quantitative research.

• Involves the collection and analysis of numerical data using statistical methods.
• Focuses on measurable variables, statistical relationships, and generalizability.
• Often conducted through surveys, experiments, or analysis of existing datasets.

Qualitative research

• Involves the collection and analysis of non-numerical data, such as narratives, observations, and interviews.
• Focuses on understanding social phenomena in their natural context, meanings, and subjective experiences.
• Common qualitative methods include interviews, ethnography, content analysis, and grounded theory.

Mixed methods research

• Combines quantitative and qualitative approaches to gain a more comprehensive understanding of social phenomena.
• Integrates data collection and analysis techniques from both paradigms to provide complementary insights.

Ethical considerations in social science research

Informed consent.

• Researchers must obtain voluntary and informed consent from participants, ensuring they understand the purpose, procedures, and potential risks of the study.
• Special considerations are required for vulnerable populations, such as children, prisoners, and individuals with diminished autonomy.

Privacy and confidentiality

• Researchers must protect the privacy and confidentiality of participants by anonymizing data, using secure storage, and reporting findings in a way that cannot identify individuals.
• Participants’ personal information should be handled with care and only used for research purposes.

Minimizing harm

• Researchers should minimize potential physical, psychological, or emotional harm to participants.
• They should take steps to ensure participant well-being, provide necessary support, and address any adverse effects that may arise during or after the study.

Research integrity

• Researchers must maintain honesty, objectivity, and transparency in their research practices.
• They should avoid plagiarism, ensure accurate reporting of findings, and adhere to ethical guidelines and institutional review processes.

By employing a range of research methods, understanding the distinctions between quantitative and qualitative approaches, and adhering to ethical considerations, social scientists can conduct rigorous and ethical research that contributes to the advancement of knowledge and promotes the well-being of individuals and communities.

In conclusion, social science research topics encompass a broad range of subjects that delve into the complexities of human behavior, societies, and cultures. Through rigorous investigation and analysis, social science research aims to generate knowledge, deepen our understanding of social phenomena, and contribute to informed decision-making.

Throughout this article, we have explored various fields within social science, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, and economics. Each field offers unique perspectives and research topics that shed light on different aspects of our social world.

By studying social inequality, gender roles, social media, cultural diversity, political ideologies, and economic systems, among many other areas, social science research provides valuable insights into the dynamics and challenges of our society. It addresses pressing issues, identifies patterns and trends, and offers evidence-based solutions that can inform policies, interventions, and societal advancements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is social science research.

Social science research refers to the systematic investigation of social phenomena, human behavior, and societal structures using various research methods and theoretical frameworks. It aims to understand and explain social processes, interactions, and dynamics.

Why is social science research important?

Social science research is important because it provides insights into human behavior, societal trends, and the complexities of the world. It helps us understand social issues, informs policy-making, contributes to evidence-based solutions, and promotes social progress and well-being.

What are some examples of social science research topics?

Social science research covers a wide range of topics, including but not limited to social inequality, gender roles, political ideologies, cultural diversity, economic behavior, psychological processes, environmental sustainability, and technological impacts on society.

What are the different research methods used in social science?

Common research methods in social science include surveys, experiments, interviews, observations, case studies, content analysis, and statistical analysis. Researchers choose methods based on their research questions, the nature of the phenomenon being studied, and the type of data needed.

What is the difference between quantitative and qualitative research in social science?

Quantitative research focuses on numerical data, statistical analysis, and measurable variables to establish patterns, correlations, and generalizability. Qualitative research, on the other hand, emphasizes non-numerical data, such as narratives and observations, to gain an in-depth understanding of social phenomena in their natural context.

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The Biggest 15 Social Issues We Are Facing Today

No matter where we live, what communities we belong to or what we care about, we are affected by social issues. It’s the price of living in a society, and while challenges like poverty, climate change and discrimination can feel overwhelming, we have the power to take action. The first step is understanding what issues we’re up against. In this article, we’ll explore 15 of the biggest social issues facing the world today.

#1. The global housing crisis

Shelter is a human right, but hundreds of millions of people lack adequate, affordable housing. According to the World Bank, the housing crisis is global, and it could impact as many as 1.6 billion people by 2025. That number will only grow with time. By 2030, the world needs to build 96,000 new affordable homes per day to meet the needs of 3 billion people. What’s driving the global housing crisis? According to Albert Saiz in a paper for the MIT Center for Real Estate, economic factors like rising costs and income inequality are prevalent. Addressing these issues now is critical to protecting people in the future.

#2. Gender inequality

Societies have been working to improve gender inequality for centuries, but we still have a long way to go. Globally, women still make less money than men, have poorer health outcomes, have fewer opportunities and endure more gender–based violence. According to 2023 data, the global gender gap won’t close until 2154 . Even the most gender-equal country, which is Iceland , still has social issues to address. Some of the issues are recognized – women are still being subjected to physical and sexual violence – while there are gaps in data related to things like unpaid care, domestic work, gender and the environment, and so on.

#3. Climate crisis

The climate crisis is one of today’s most urgent social issues. Earth.org outlines a list of major climate events in 2023 , including severe droughts, wildfires, higher ocean surface temperatures and storms. That same year, the IPCC released a summary of its previous five reports, showing how human activity is causing severe damage to the planet, and, if trends continue, parts of the earth will become unlivable in just a few decades. The world can fight the climate crisis, but we have to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and turn to renewable energy sources.

#4. Overconsumption

Greenhouse gas emissions are a primary driver of climate change, but overconsumption is hurting the planet, too. Unfathomable amounts of food, clothing, plastic and other things are thrown into landfills and the ocean every day. However, it’s not a problem for everyone. According to research, just 20% of the world’s population is responsible for consuming 80% of the globe’s natural resources. The richest 500 million people release half of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. To break it down even further, if every person in the world consumed resources at the rate as people in Canada and the United States did, we would need at least five earths .

#5. Global hunger

Global food insecurity is a serious problem. According to data, about 735 million people endured chronic hunger in 2022, and with issues like climate change, the lingering effects of the pandemic and conflict, it will be very challenging to end hunger by 2030. Children typically suffer the most. When kids don’t get enough to eat, they become more vulnerable to diseases like measles, malaria and diarrhea. According to the World Food Programme, “hotspots” for hunger include Burkina Faso, Mali, South Sudan and Palestine.

#6. Threats to LGBTQ+ rights

At the same time as LGBTQ+ rights have expanded, certain countries have pushed back. In the summer of 2023, the first Ugandan was charged with “aggravated homosexuality,” a crime punishable by death. In its 2023 review, the Electronic Frontier Foundation also found an increase in anti-LGBTQ sentiment , including more laws that restrict privacy and freedom of expression, and censorship of LGBTQ+ websites. Even in places like the United States, which is seen by many as a haven for the LGBTQ+ community, legislative threats are on the rise .

#7. Reproductive justice

Reproductive justice, which includes things like abortion access and maternal health, is a social issue affecting every corner of the world. According to the Center for Reproductive Rights, most countries are expanding abortion rights, while just four – the United States, Poland, Nicaragua, and El Salvador – rolled back abortion rights . Globally, about 40% of women live in places with “restrictive” abortion laws. Related social issues include menstrual health, prenatal and maternal health, access to contraception and so on.

#8. Educational disparities

When people get a good education, they’re more likely to have higher incomes, better health, healthier children and other benefits. On a larger scale, education also helps countries achieve overall wealth and health. There’s been significant progress on closing the gender gap in education. According to a blog on the World Bank, boys and girls complete primary school at almost an equal rate . However, around 130 million girls are still being denied an education. Wealth also plays a role in educational disparities. In the United States, one study found that wealth affects a student’s chances of finishing college. On a global scale, wealth also impacts where a family lives and what school options are available, as well as tutoring opportunities, whether a student needs a job and much more.

#9. Health and healthcare

Health and the ability (or inability) to access good healthcare are major social issues. Unfortunately, healthcare systems around the world are struggling. COVID-19 continues to be a problem, but hospitals are also facing staff shortages and competition . Not everyone is affected equally. According to the World Health Organization, refugees and migrants experience worse health outcomes due to language barriers, cultural differences, discrimination and legal restrictions on what services they can access.

#10. Income inequality

Global income inequality fluctuates, but according to a 2023 Oxfam study , the world’s richest 1% took almost ⅔ of all the new wealth created since 2020. That gave them almost twice the amount of money held by the bottom 99%. Income inequality can cause serious problems , such as lower economic growth, worse social cohesion and political polarization. There are also ethical consequences to income inequality, which human rights and social justice advocates often discuss. Can society ever be truly good or free when only a handful of people hold all the wealth?

#11. Global unemployment (and underemployment)

High unemployment rates – and low-paying jobs – drive income inequality and poverty. In a 2023 report, the International Labour Organization found that the world is still experiencing slow employment growth . There was a slight recovery in 2021, but as the economy slows again, people are forced to take jobs that pay less, provide fewer hours and/or offer poor working conditions. South Africa, which is the most industrialized economy in Africa, also has one of the highest unemployment rates. According to Reuters, reasons include structural issues related to the shadows of colonialism and apartheid. To fight issues like poverty and gender inequality, countries need to address unemployment and low-paying jobs.

#12. Increased migration

People move all the time, but issues like war and climate change force people to leave their homes. Sometimes, they move within the borders of one country, but other times, they’re forced to take long, dangerous journeys to countries they’ve never visited. According to the Migration Policy Institute, “humanitarian migration” increased in 2023, while policies could impact elections in 2024. The social issues related to migration, such as the rights of migrants, affordable housing, health services and more, will all be relevant for the foreseeable future.

#13. Artificial intelligence

The presence of artificial intelligence has exploded in recent years, but the technology has several issues. Ethics is just one of them. According to a guide on UMA Libraries, AI has problems with gender and racial bias, plagiarism, generating fake news and supporting scams. It also takes a lot of energy to train and run AI programs, so as the use of AI increases, so will its carbon footprint . As the technology continues to develop, new regulations, legislation and guidelines will need to be created, as well.

#14. Debt bondage

Rates of labor trafficking have been increasing over the years. According to research, about ⅕ of those in forced labor trafficking are in debt bondage . Debt bondage is a very common type of trafficking where a person is forced to work off a loan. However, because the debt is often so high and they are paid so little, it’s impossible to escape the situation. Perpetrators also often have no intention of freeing the people they’re exploiting; debt bondage can even pass on to children. While bonded labor is technically illegal in some places, like India, it persists , especially in rural areas. Because trafficking is an illicit practice, it’s very difficult to get accurate numbers, but it’s most likely worse than what’s reported.

#15. Threats to journalism

By providing vital information to the public, journalists are essential to freedom of speech, freedom of expression, democracy and the protection of other human rights. In recent years, journalism has been under threat. According to the 2023 World Press Freedom Index , the environment for journalism was “bad” in seven out of 10 countries, while it was “satisfactory” in just three out of 10 countries. The reasons include a surge in fake news and propaganda. Journalists also face threats to their lives. UNESCO found that in 2023, there was a near doubling of deaths of journalists working in conflict zones. As conflicts in Ukraine, Palestine and other countries continue, the safety of journalism will remain a social issue.

Top 20 Current Global Issues We Must Address

What are the most pressing issues in the world today? What will demand the most attention in the next 5, 10, and 20+ years? In this article, which frequently refers to the World Economic Forum’s 17th Edition of the Global Risks Report, we’ll highlight 20 current global issues we must address, including issues related to climate change, COVID-19, social rights, and more. While it’s hardly a comprehensive discussion, it’s a solid introduction to the kinds of concerns facing our world today.

#1. Poverty

In fall 2022, the World Bank will update the International Poverty Line from $1.90 to $2.15. This means anyone living on less than $2.15 is in “extreme poverty.” Why the change? Increases in the costs of food, clothing, and shelter between 2011-2017 make the “real value of $2.15 in 2017 prices equal to $1.90 in 2011 prices. As for the World Bank’s goal to reduce extreme poverty to 3% or less by 2030, the pandemic has made it even harder. Extreme poverty isn’t the only poverty we have to contend with. 62% of the global population lives on less than $10/day. While there’s been progress over the years, the end of poverty is still far off.

Learn more about tackling poverty with an online course: Poverty & Population: How Demographics Shape Policy (Columbia University)

#2. Climate change

The IPCC released its sixth report in 2022. In its summary for policy-makers, the report’s authors outlined a series of near-term, mid-term, and long-term risks. If global warming reaches 1.5°C in the near term (2021-2040), it would cause “unavoidable increases in multiple climate hazards,” as well as “multiple risks to ecosystems and humans.” In the long term, climate change will present major health issues, premature deaths, risks to cities and settlements , and other dangers. Mitigation is desperately needed – and fast. Because of climate change ’s connection to other issues on this list, it’s one of the most serious challenges facing humanity.

Learn more about climate change with an online course: Science and Engineering of Climate Change (EDHEC Business School)

#3. Food insecurity

According to the 2022 Global Report on Food Crises , which is produced by the Global Network against Food Crises, the number of people in crisis or worse is the highest it’s been in the six years since the report has existed. Close to 193 million people were experiencing acute food insecurity in 2021, which is an increase of almost 40 million since 2020. This represents a staggering 80% increase since 2016. Causes include “economic shocks,” like an increase in global food prices. Domestic food price inflation in low-income countries also rose a lot. “Weather-related disasters” are also a big driver. For 15.7 million people in 15 countries, it was the primary driver of acute food insecurity.

Learn more about food insecurity with an online course: Feeding the World (University of Pennsylvania)

#4. Refugee rights

According to UNHCR, the war in Ukraine sparked the fastest-growing refugee crisis since WWII. Almost 6 million (as of May 10, 2022) people have fled. The UNCHR’s Refugee Brief , which compiles the week’s biggest refugee stories, has recently described situations in places like Somalia, where thousands of people were displaced due to severe drought. Between January and mid-April, more than 36,000 refugees from Nigeria, Mali, and Burkina Faso arrived in Niger. These are only a few examples of the refugee crises, which endangers already marginalized groups – like women and children – and puts them at an increased risk of trafficking , violence, and death.

Learn more about refugee rights with an online course: Refugees in the 21st Century (University of London)

#5. COVID-19

The WHO declared COVID-19 a pandemic in March 2022. It will continue to be a major issue for the world. The WEF’s Global Risks Report 2022 discusses COVID’s effects at length , including major economic recovery disparities and social erosion. According to a January 2022 article from NPR , there are also issues with vaccinations as many countries continue to have trouble getting doses. Distribution, vaccine hesitancy, healthcare systems, and other problems also factor into low vaccination rates. While we may never know the exact impact, the WHO estimates that between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2021, there were around 14.9 million excess deaths linked to COVID-19.

Learn more about the impact of COVID-19 with an online course: Life After COVID-19: Get Ready for our Post-Pandemic Future (Institute for the Future)

#6. Future pandemic preparation and response

COVID-19 taught the world the importance of prepardeness. In a Harvard blog , Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the WHO, outlined the lessons the world should take to heart. The first: science has to guide policy. The politicization of the pandemic led to a lot of unnecessary damage. Another lesson is that science must pair with equity or it can actually make inequalities worse. This is obvious when looking at how low-income countries struggled to get the vaccines while wealthier countries stocked up. More resilient healthcare systems are also a must, as well as more coherent, global plans on how to respond. The world must also invest in research on contagious diseases, zoonotic diseases, the effectiveness of outbreak responses, and more.

Learn more about future pandemic response with an online course: Pandemic preparedness, prevention, and response (Politecnico di Milano)

#7. Healthcare

The healthcare industry has experienced major shifts due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the World Economic Forum, there’s been new investments and innovations, especially from the technology and telehealth sectors. In 2021, $44 billion was spent on health innovation. The world will be seeing the effects of these innovations for years to come, though equity will no doubt be a major issue. In places like the United States, the pandemic also reaffirmed how broken healthcare systems can be. In an MIT News blog , Andrea Campbell, a professor of political science, says the pandemic revealed a “dire need” for investments in public-health infrastructure, as well as a need to expand healthcare access and insurance coverage.

Learn more about health inequity issues with an online course: Addressing Racial Health Inequity in Healthcare (University of Michigan)

#8. Mental health

Globally, almost 1 billion people have some form of mental disorder. The pandemic made the world’s mental health worse. According to a scientific brief from the WHO , there’s been a 25% increase in anxiety and depression worldwide. Causes include social isolation, fear of sickness, grief, and financial anxieties. Health workers were also severely impacted, as well as young women and girls. The brief also highlights how the pandemic disrupted many mental health services, including services for substance abuse. Countries need to ensure access to mental health services as part of their COVID-19 recovery plans and beyond. It’s an economic decision, as well. The Lancet states that anxiety and depression alone cost the global economy around $1 trillion a year.

Learn more about mental health with an online course: The Science of Well-Being (Yale University)

#9. Disability rights

According to the WHO , over 1 billion people have some form of disability. Half can’t afford healthcare. They’re also more likely to live in poverty than those without a disability, have poorer health outcomes, and have less access to work and education opportunities. Human Rights Watch lists other discriminations disabled people face, such as an increased risk of violence. There’s been progress regarding disability rights, but many countries lack strong protections. The world still has a long way to go to ensure equality for those with disabilities.

Learn more about disability rights with an online courses: Disability Awareness and Support (University of Pittsburgh)

#10. LGBTQ+ rights

Members of the LGBTQ+ community face discrimination in many forms. According to Amnesty International , discrimination can target sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics. Even in more progressive countries like the United States, people face violence and discrimination. According to the Human Rights Campaign, more than 300 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were proposed in 2022. At least a dozen states are considering legislation that forbids schools from discussing or using a curriculum that covers sexual orientation and gender identity. Considering the United States’ influence in the world, this attack on LGBTQ+ rights will likely have consequences that need to be addressed.

Learn more about LGBTQ+ issues with an online courses .

#11. Reproductive justice

Reproductive justice – which encompasses more than just abortion rights – is threatened by legislation, lack of funding, lack of education, and restricted healthcare access. In most places, wealth is a big determinant of whether a person can access reproductive services. It’s better in some places than others, but as we’ve seen with other issues on this list, even “progressive” countries like the United States are experiencing major shifts. In June 2022, the Supreme Court is expected to overrule Roe v. Wade , a milestone court case that protected a pregnant woman’s right to abortion. The impact would be immediate and will likely influence other countries.

Learn more about reproductive justice and women’s rights: International Women’s Health and Human Rights (Stanford University)

#12. Children’s rights

Children are a very vulnerable group. In 2019, around 5.2 million children under five from mostly preventable and treatable causes. 2.4 million were newborns under 28 days old. Leading causes include preterm birth complications, pneumonia, and malaria. According to UNICEF, the climate crisis also represents a severe threat to kids. Around 1 billion kids live in “extremely high-risk countries” that are hit by the worst effects of climate change. 920 kids have trouble accessing clean water and 600 million are exposed to vector-borne diseases like malaria. Child labor also remains an issue. At the beginning of 2020, around 160 million were forced into labor while COVID-19 put 9 million more kids at risk. That’s almost 1 in 10 children globally. Almost half are in dangerous environments. As is often the case, the other issues on this list – climate change, poverty, COVID, gender equality, etc – factor into children’s rights.

Learn more about children’s rights: Children’s Human Rights – An Interdisciplinary Introduction (University of Geneva)

#13. Gender equality

Global gender equality has gradually improved over the years, but data from the 2021 Global Gender Report shows that the end of the global gender gap is still 135 years away. The pandemic played a huge role in reversing positive trends as women were hit harder financially. According to Oxfam , women experienced a 5% job loss while men experienced 3.9%. That means women lost about $800 million in 2020. This is a low estimate since it doesn’t count the informal economy, which includes millions of women. Women are also more likely to live in poverty, more affected by gender-based violence, and more affected by climate change.

Learn more about gender equality: Gender Analytics: Gender Equity through Inclusive Design (University of Toronto)

#14. Cybersecurity

The WEF’s Global Risks Report 2022 (page 9) listed cybersecurity vulnerabilities as a concern. The reason is rapid digitalization, which was triggered in part by COVID-19. Many “advanced economies” are now at a higher risk for cyberattacks. GRPS respondents identified cybersecurity failure as a critical short-term risk. In 2020, malware and ransomware attacks went up by 358% and 435%. There are a few reasons for this, including better (and easier) attack methods and poor governance. Cyberattacks have a swath of serious consequences and erode public trust. As countries become more dependent on digitalization, their cybersecurity needs to keep up.

Learn more about cybersecurity: IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate (IBM)

#15. Disinformation

Rapid digitalization comes with many issues, including the lightning-fast spread of disinformation. The WEF report describes deepfakes, an accessible AI technology, and its potential to sway elections and other political outcomes. Disinformation doesn’t need to be sophisticated to be successful, however. Through social media posts and videos, twelve anti-vax activists were responsible for almost ⅔ of all anti-vaccine content on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Their content flooded the internet with the type of harmful, fear-mongering disinformation that played a significant role in vaccine hesitancy and political radicalization. Because disinformation travels faster online than the truth, it’s a global issue that should be addressed.

Learn more about tackling disinformation: Communicating Trustworthy Information in the Digital World (University of Rotterdam)

#16. Freedom of the press

According to the Varieties of Democracy Institute (as reported in The Economist ), about 85% of people live in a country where press freedom has gone down in the past 5 years. After peaking at .65 in the early 2000s and 2011, the global average dropped to .49 in 2021. Major countries like China, India, Russia, Brazil, and Turkey saw significant declines. Journalists and news organizations face threats like violence, imprisonment, lack of funding, and coordinated online attacks and harassment. A free press is essential to a functioning democracy. Without press freedom, all human rights are at risk.

Learn more about freedom of expression: Human Rights for Open Societies (Utrecht University)

#17. Debt crises

In the WEF Global Risks Report (page 7), respondents named debt crises as one of the most pressing issues over the next decade, though respondents believe they will become most serious in just 3-5 years. COVID-19 is a big reason why. Government stimulus was necessary, but many countries are now left with debt burdens. For corporate and public finances in large economies, debt burdens can lead to defaults, bankruptcies, insolvency, and more. This is a far-reaching issue as it affects budgets for areas like healthcare and green energy.

Learn more about the debt: Finance for everyone – Debt (McMaster University)

#18. Corruption

Corruption encompasses a host of actions such as bribery, election manipulation, fraud, and state capture. The World Bank Group names corruption as a barrier to ending extreme poverty and “boosting shared prosperity” for the poorest populations. When it comes to addressing poverty, climate change, healthcare, gender equality, and more, corruption gets in the way. Because corruption is a global problem, global solutions are necessary. Reform, better accountability systems, and open processes will all help.

Learn more about tackling corruption: What is Corruption: Anti-Corruption and Compliance (University of Pennsylvania)

#19. Authoritarianism

According to Freedom House, global democracy is eroding. That includes countries with long-established democracies. In their 2022 report, the organization reveals that global freedom has been declining for the past 16 years. 60 countries faced declines in the last year. Only 25 saw improvements. Only 20% of the global population lives in Free countries. China, Russia, and other authoritarian countries have gained more power in the international system, while countries with established democracies – like the United States – are losing their freedoms. What can be done? Freedom House says success “requires a bold, sustained response that establishes support for democracy and countering authoritarianism.” Governments and citizens engage and stand for democracy.

Learn more about tackling authoritarianism: Citizenship and the Rule of Law (University of London)

#20. Global cooperation

Addressing the issues in this article is not an easy task. True progress is only possible through global cooperation, a fact which is woven through the WEF report. Everything from addressing cybersecurity threats to humanitarian emergencies to protecting democracy depends on strong cooperation between countries. As the report says in its preface: “Restoring trust and fostering cooperation within and between countries will be crucial to addressing these challenges and preventing the world from drifting further apart.” The challenges threatening global cooperation are just as clear as the need, however, which makes it one of the most serious issues of the day.

Learn more about global cooperation: Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World

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About the author, emmaline soken-huberty.

Emmaline Soken-Huberty is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon. She started to become interested in human rights while attending college, eventually getting a concentration in human rights and humanitarianism. LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and climate change are of special concern to her. In her spare time, she can be found reading or enjoying Oregon’s natural beauty with her husband and dog.

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The 9 Major Research Areas in Social Psychology

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Mitchell Funk / Getty Images

Social Cognition

Violence and aggression, prosocial behavior, prejudice and discrimination.

• Social Identity

Group Behavior

Social influence, interpersonal relationships.

Social psychology is a branch of psychology that studies a wide range of subjects related to social behavior. This includes studying how people interact, factors that affect social perceptions, the formation of attitudes, and how groups influence individuals.

Research in social psychology is often focused on subjects that fall within three broad areas:

• Social influence : Social influence refers to the ways in which our opinions and behavior are affected by the presence of others. This includes studies on topics such as conformity, obedience, and social pressure.
• Social perception : Social perception refers to the ways in which we form impressions of other people. This includes research on topics including first impressions, stereotyping, and prejudice.
• Social interaction : Social interaction refers to the ways in which we interact with other people. This includes research on topics such as communication, aggression, and altruism.

This article discusses some of the major areas of research in social psychology. It also explores some examples of the types of research that social psychologists might conduct within these subject areas.

Social cognition is concerned with the processing, storage, and application of social information. For example, research in this area of social psychology may focus on the development and use of social schemas. 

Schemas are our general ideas about the world, how things are, and how things work. In the case of social schemas, these ideas relate to how we expect people to behave in different situations.

These mental categories allow us to function without constantly stopping to interpret everything around us. We also develop associations between related schemas, which play an important role in the thought process and social behavior.

One area of social cognition research concerns person perception , which is how people form impressions of others. 

First impressions are the judgments we form about someone based on limited information. Studies have shown that first impressions happen within mere milliseconds and are based on several cues, such as facial expressions, body language, voice, and the beliefs held by the observer.  

Understanding how people acquire and process social information allows researchers to better explain how it can affect social interactions and individual behavior.

Attitudes and Attitude Change

Another major research area in social psychology involves the study of attitudes . Social psychologists are interested in the components of attitudes, how attitudes develop, and how attitudes change.

Attitudes are evaluations of people, objects, or issues. They can be positive (e.g., "I like chocolate") or negative (e.g., "I dislike taxes"). Various factors contribute to the development of attitudes, including upbringing and experiences, although genetics also appears to play a role in shaping them.

Researchers have identified three core components of attitude: an affective component, a behavioral component, and a cognitive component. Often referred to as the "ABCs of attitude," these elements describe how we feel, behave, and understand.

Some other characteristics of attitudes that researchers may be interested in include:

• How they are best measured : Some attitudes can be measured through self-report questionnaires, but others might be better measured using tools like facial expression or arousal levels.
• Factors that affect their strength : Attitudes can vary considerably in terms of their intensity. The strength of these attitudes directly impacts the degree to which they will guide their actions. Direct experiences and frequent exposure to the attitude can impact its strength.
• How attitudes affect behavior : Researchers are also interested in understanding how and when these attitudes influence people's actions. For example, social psychologists might explore how attitudes develop through exposure to social media sources and how those attitudes relate to real-world actions.

Attitudes are an important research topic in social psychology because they impact how people view and interact with others.

What causes violence and aggression ? While many different factors play a role, social psychologists are interested in understanding the social influences that shape violent behavior.

Research in this area looks at numerous social factors that may cause aggression, including:

• Situational variables that might contribute to aggression
• Non-physical types of aggression such as name-calling or gossiping
• How aggression is learned via modeling, such as witnessing adults or children engage in aggressive or violent behaviors
• How violence in the media affects behavior in the real world
• Strategies that can be effective in the reduction of aggression and violence
• The role social learning plays in producing aggressive behaviors and actions
• How public policy can be used to curb violent behavior

Research into the epidemic of gun violence is an example of how social psychologists are trying to understand the variables that contribute to a problem, and then utilize that knowledge to come up with actionable solutions.

Prosocial behavior is another major research area in social psychology. Prosocial behaviors are those that involve helping and cooperating.

Researchers often look at why people help others, as well as why they sometimes refuse to help or cooperate. The bystander effect is an example of a social phenomenon in the subject area of prosocial behavior.

Much of the research in the area of bystander effect was prompted by the murder of a young woman named Kitty Genovese. This case captured national attention when reports suggested that neighbors had witnessed her attack and murder but failed to call the police for help.

Later reviews of the case indicate that few (if any) of the neighbors had a clear view of the scene and were unaware of what was happening. Nevertheless, the case became mythologized in psychology textbooks and prompted a surge of interest in prosocial behaviors.

Research inspired by the Genovese case produced a great deal of information on prosocial behavior and how and why people choose—or sometimes refuse—to help others.

Prejudice, discrimination, and stereotypes exist in any social group. Social psychologists are interested in the origins, causes, and effects of these attitudes and social categorizations.

Some questions that social psychologists explore include:

• How does prejudice develop?
• Why are stereotypes maintained in the face of contrary evidence?
• How can prejudice be measured?
• What factors contribute to the formation of prejudice and discrimination?
• Are there effective ways to reduce prejudice and discrimination?

For example, researchers have found that several factors contribute to the development of prejudice, including stereotypes, social categorization, and social influences. Another factor that plays a part is the outgroup homogeneity bias, or the tendency to view people outside of our social group as being more homogenous than members of our own group.

By learning more about the psychology of prejudice and discrimination, researchers can look for solutions to help help prevent it from happening.

Self and Social Identity

Our perceptions of social identities and ourselves are another important research area in social psychology. Some of the questions that researchers explore include:

• How do people come to know and understand themselves?
• How do these self-perceptions affect our social interactions?
• How does belonging to different social groups shape individual identity?
• How do intersecting group members influence self-perception and self-identity?

Social psychologists are interested in learning more about how this inner life influences our outer lives and social world. Self-awareness, self-esteem, self-concept , and self-expression are only a few factors that influence our social experience.

For example, social comparison is a process that can impact how people view themselves. Upward social comparison involves comparing the self to others who are perceived as higher in status and ability, while downward social comparison focuses on making comparisons to those who are lower in status or ability.

Upward comparisons can leave people feeling like they don't measure up, damaging self-esteem. Downward comparisons, on the other hand, can help enhance self-esteem.

By learning more about how social identities and self-perceptions interact, social psychologists are better able to understand how social factors can influence how individuals feel about themselves and their identities.

Group behavior is defined as the actions, feelings, or thoughts of a collective of people. Such groups involve two or more people who share something in common such as identity, purpose, and belief.

The behavior of groups is one of the largest research areas in social psychology. Most people realize that groups tend to behave differently than individuals. These group behaviors are sometimes beneficial but can also be detrimental.

Social psychologists often look at topics such as:

• Group dynamics
• Group decision making
• Cooperation
• Group influence

Norms are an example of an aspect of group behavior that can guide how group members think, behave, or act. Norms are standards that emerge and guide how another member judge one another.

Social psychologists are also interested in the role of social influence on behavior and decision-making. Topics such as the psychology of persuasion , peer pressure, conformity , and obedience are only a few of those studied in this area of social psychology.

One example of research in this area of social psychology was Milgram's obedience studies conducted during the 1960s. The experiments found that when ordered by an authority figure, participants were willing to deliver what they believed were dangerous and painful electrical shocks to another person. While the shocks were staged, the research suggested that many people were willing to go to great lengths to obey authority.

Research has helped reveal the power of social influence and has uncovered ways to help people resist influence.

Social relationships play a major role in shaping behavior, attitudes, feelings, and thoughts. Social psychologists study how these interpersonal relationships affect people by looking at attachment , liking , love , and attraction.

Some research questions that social psychologists might explore include:

• How important are interpersonal relationships to individual well-being?
• What factors play a role in attraction?
• How do interpersonal relationships influence helping behaviors in groups?
• How do close relationships affect individuals?

Close relationships are relationships in which we feel a strong sense of connection and intimacy with another person. Studies on close relationships have shown that they are associated with many benefits, such as increased happiness and satisfaction with life.

A Word From Verywell

Social psychology is a rich subject that explores how social perception, social interaction, and social influence affect both groups and individuals. Researchers in this field are interested in various topics, including attitudes, attraction, close relationships, and helping behavior. By learning more about these subjects, social psychologists can add to our understanding of social behavior and its effect on individual well-being.

Venta A, Hatkevich C, Mellick W, Vanwoerden S, Sharp C. Social cognition mediates the relation between attachment schemas and posttraumatic stress disorder . Psychol Trauma. 2017;9(1):88-95. doi:10.1037/tra0000165

Stolier RM, Hehman E, Keller MD, Walker M, Freeman JB. The conceptual structure of face impressions . Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A . 2018;115(37):9210-9215. doi:10.1073/pnas.1807222115

Markovitch N, Netzer L, Tamir M. Will you touch a dirty diaper? Attitudes towards disgust and behaviour [published correction appears in Cogn Emot . 2016;30(3):i].  Cogn Emot . 2016;30(3):592–602. doi:10.1080/02699931.2015.1020049

Olson JM, Vernon PA, Harris JA, Jang KL. The heritability of attitudes: A study of twins . J Pers Soc Psychol . 2001;80(6):845-60. PMID: 11414369.

Van Ryzin MJ, Dishion TJ. From antisocial behavior to violence: a model for the amplifying role of coercive joining in adolescent friendships .  J Child Psychol Psychiatry . 2013;54(6):661–669. doi:10.1111/jcpp.12017

Kassin SM. The killing of Kitty Genovese: What else does this case tell us?   Perspect Psychol Sci . 2017;12(3):374–381. doi:10.1177/1745691616679465

Rhodes M, Mandalaywala TM. The development and developmental consequences of social essentialism .  Wiley Interdiscip Rev Cogn Sci . 2017;8(4):10.1002/wcs.1437. doi:10.1002/wcs.1437

Hjerm M, Eger M, Danell R.  Peer attitudes and the development of prejudice in adolescence .  Socius Sociolog Res Dynamic World . 2018;4:1-11. doi:10.1177/2378023118763187

American Psychological Association.  Outgroup homogeneity bias .

Drury J, Carter H, Cocking C, Ntontis E, Tekin Guven S, Amlôt R. Facilitating collective psychosocial resilience in the public in emergencies: Twelve recommendations based on the social identity approach [published correction appears in Front Public Health . 2019 Jun 27;7:181].  Front Public Health . 2019;7:141. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2019.00141

Rahman T. Extreme Overvalued Beliefs: How Violent Extremist Beliefs Become "Normalized" .  Behav Sci (Basel) . 2018;8(1):10. doi:10.3390/bs8010010

Russell NJC.  Milgram's obedience to authority experiments: Origins and early evolution .  Br J Soc Psychol . 2011;50:140-162. doi:10.1348/014466610X492205

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Talking politics with strangers isn't as awful as you'd expect, research suggests

Many of us avoid discussing politics with someone who holds an opposing viewpoint, assuming the exchange will turn nasty or awkward. But having those conversations is far more gratifying than we expect, a new research paper suggests.

Across a series of experiments involving hundreds of U.S. adults, a team of scientists found that individuals underestimate the social connection they can make with a stranger who disagrees with them. The findings are published in Psychological Science, a journal of the Association for Psychological Science.

These low expectations may help to explain why people think those on the opposite side of the political spectrum have more extreme views than they actually do, behavioral scientists Kristina A. Wald (University of Pennsylvania), Michael Kardas (Oklahoma State University), and Nicholas Epley (University of Chicago) wrote in an article about their research.

"Mistakenly fearing a negative interaction may create misplaced partisan divides," they wrote, "not only keeping people from connecting with each other but also keeping people from learning about each other and from each other."

The experimenters found evidence, through experiments conducted online and in person, that people prefer to avoid hot-button issues, especially with people who disagree with them. People also tend to advise their friends and relatives to avoid such conversations.

But Wald, Kardas, and Epley believed people would find discussing their political differences to be a more positive experience than expected, at least partly because people fail to appreciate the extent to which conversations are informative and draw people closer together.

To test their theory, they asked nearly 200 participants in one experiment for their opinions on divisive political and religious topics, such as abortion and climate change. The researchers then divided the participants into pairs and assigned them to discuss one of these topics. Some participants were told in advance whether their partners agreed with them or not, but others entered the discussions unaware of their partners' views.

All the participants reported how positively or negatively they expected the conversation to be, then engaged in the discussion while being video recorded. Afterward, the participants rated their sentiments about the dialogue. Research assistants also viewed the videos of the conversations and evaluated them across several dimensions.

As predicted, the participants underestimated how positive their conversation experience would be, but this tendency was largest when they disagreed with their partner. Participants in this disagreement condition also underestimated the similarities in their opinions. Coders who watched the videos of these conversations confirmed that participants tended to stay on topic, and that the conversations were consistently positive whether the participants agreed or disagreed.

In another experiment, the researchers tested their hypothesis that people underestimate how the process of conversation itself -- actual back-and-forth dialogue -- connects people. To do so, they randomly assigned participants to discuss a divisive topic they agreed or disagreed on, but they also randomly assigned participants to either have a conversation about the topic in a dialogue format or to simply learn of their partners' beliefs on the topic in a monologue format. In the monologue format, each person separately recorded themselves talking about their opinion and then watched the other person's recording.

Overall, the participants underestimated how positive their interactions would be, especially when they disagreed with their partner, the researchers noted. But this tendency was especially strong when people actually had a conversation with their partner rather than simply learning of their beliefs in a monologue. The social forces in conversation that draw people together through back-and-forth dialogue are not only powerful, but they appear to be even more powerful than people expect.

The researchers cautioned that their experiments involved participants talking with strangers; the experiments did not reveal how disagreements unfold among family and friends. Still, they said their findings illustrate the benefits of talking and listening to others rather than typing and broadcasting in debates on social media.

Our reluctance to discuss our differences denies us some positive social interactions, the authors concluded.

"Misunderstanding the outcomes of a conversation," they wrote, "could lead people to avoid discussing disagreements more often, creating a misplaced barrier to learning, social connection, free inquiry, and free expression."

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Story Source:

Materials provided by Association for Psychological Science . Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

• Kristina A. Wald, Michael Kardas, Nicholas Epley. Misplaced Divides? Discussing Political Disagreement With Strangers Can Be Unexpectedly Positive . Psychological Science , 2024; DOI: 10.1177/09567976241230005

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Creating a Corporate Social Responsibility Program with Real Impact

• Emilio Marti,
• David Risi,
• Eva Schlindwein,
• Andromachi Athanasopoulou

Lessons from multinational companies that adapted their CSR practices based on local feedback and knowledge.

Exploring the critical role of experimentation in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), research on four multinational companies reveals a stark difference in CSR effectiveness. Successful companies integrate an experimental approach, constantly adapting their CSR practices based on local feedback and knowledge. This strategy fosters genuine community engagement and responsive initiatives, as seen in a mining company’s impactful HIV/AIDS program. Conversely, companies that rely on standardized, inflexible CSR methods often fail to achieve their goals, demonstrated by a failed partnership due to local corruption in another mining company. The study recommends encouraging broad employee participation in CSR and fostering a culture that values CSR’s long-term business benefits. It also suggests that sustainable investors and ESG rating agencies should focus on assessing companies’ experimental approaches to CSR, going beyond current practices to examine the involvement of diverse employees in both developing and adapting CSR initiatives. Overall, embracing a dynamic, data-driven approach to CSR is essential for meaningful social and environmental impact.

By now, almost all large companies are engaged in corporate social responsibility (CSR): they have CSR policies, employ CSR staff, engage in activities that aim to have a positive impact on the environment and society, and write CSR reports. However, the evolution of CSR has brought forth new challenges. A stark contrast to two decades ago, when the primary concern was the sheer neglect of CSR, the current issue lies in the ineffective execution of these practices. Why do some companies implement CSR in ways that create a positive impact on the environment and society, while others fail to do so? Our research reveals that experimentation is critical for impactful CSR, which has implications for both companies that implement CSR and companies that externally monitor these CSR activities, such as sustainable investors and ESG rating agencies.

• EM Emilio Marti is an associate professor at the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University. His research focuses on corporate sustainability with a specific focus on sustainable investing.
• DR David Risi is a professor at the Bern University of Applied Sciences and a habilitated lecturer at the University of St. Gallen. His research focuses on how companies organize CSR and sustainability.
• ES Eva Schlindwein is a professor at the Bern University of Applied Sciences and a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Oxford. Her research focuses on how organizations navigate tensions between business and society.
• AA Andromachi Athanasopoulou is an associate professor at Queen Mary University of London and an associate fellow at the University of Oxford. Her research focuses on how individuals manage their leadership careers and make ethically charged decisions.

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Rising numbers of americans say jews and muslims face a lot of discrimination, most u.s. adults think speech related to israeli and palestinian statehood should be allowed, but not calls for violence.

Pew Research Center conducted this survey to explore the U.S. public’s views on discrimination and free speech in the context of the Israel-Hamas war. We surveyed a total of 12,693 U.S. adults from Feb. 13 to 25, 2024. Most of the respondents (10,642) are members of Pew Research Center’s American Trends Panel, an online survey panel recruited through national random sampling of residential addresses, which gives nearly all U.S. adults a chance of selection.

The remaining 2,051 respondents are members of three other survey panels – Ipsos’ KnowledgePanel, SSRS’s Opinion Panel, and NORC at the University of Chicago’s AmeriSpeak Panel – who were interviewed because they identify as Jewish or Muslim.

We “oversampled” (i.e., interviewed a disproportionately large number of) Jews and Muslims to provide more reliable estimates of their views on the topics covered in this survey. But these groups are not overrepresented in the national estimates reported here, because we adjusted for the oversampling in the weighting of the data. The survey is weighted to be representative of the U.S. adult population by gender, race, ethnicity, partisan affiliation, education, religious affiliation and other categories. In total, 1,941 Jewish and 414 Muslim respondents participated in this survey.

While the sample design was identical for Jews and Muslims, the resulting sample sizes are different. There are two main reasons for this. The Jewish population in the United States is roughly double the size of the Muslim population . Consequently, national survey panels have roughly twice as many or more Jewish panelists as Muslim ones. In addition, decades of research on survey nonresponse has shown that some groups in the U.S. are more likely to participate in surveys than others. Generally speaking, Jewish adults are more likely to participate in surveys than Muslim adults.

The survey also included questions about where people were born and whether people identify as Arab or of Arab origin. Because of insufficient sample size, we are unable to analyze Arab Americans or Americans of Israeli or Palestinian descent separately.

In this survey, Jews and Muslims are defined as U.S. adults who answer a question about their current religion by saying they are Jewish or Muslim, respectively. Unlike our 2020 report on Jews in America , this report does not separately analyze the views of “Jews of no religion” (i.e., people who identify as Jewish culturally, ethnically or by family background but not by religion).

For more information on how we conducted this survey, refer to the ATP’s Methodology and the Methodology for this report . Read the questions used in this report , along with responses.

The share of U.S. adults who say there is a lot of discrimination against Jews in our society has doubled in the last three years, according to a new Pew Research Center survey, jumping from 20% in 2021 to 40% today. A somewhat larger share – 44% – say Muslims face a lot of discrimination, up 5 percentage points since 2021.

Many Americans particularly sense that discrimination against Muslims and Jews has risen since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. The vast majority of U.S. Muslims and Jews themselves agree: Seven-in-ten Muslims and nine-in-ten Jews surveyed say they have felt an increase in discrimination against their respective groups since the war began in October.

The survey, conducted Feb. 13-25 among a nationally representative sample of 12,693 U.S. adults that includes an oversample of American Jews and Muslims, also probed the public’s views on the limits of free speech related to the war.

It finds that Americans are broadly comfortable with speech both for and against Israeli and Palestinian statehood. But most U.S. adults are not OK with calls for violence against Jews or Muslims.

Pew Research Center surveys conducted on our American Trends Panel (ATP) always include Jews and Muslims. But these surveys do not always have enough Jewish or Muslim respondents to report their answers separately. This is because they make up relatively small shares of the U.S. adult population: Roughly 2% of Americans say their religion is Judaism , and 1% say their religion is Islam .

To provide more reliable estimates of Jewish and Muslim views on the topics covered in this survey, we included Jewish and Muslim respondents from three other national panels run by large research organizations (Ipsos, NORC and SSRS). All these panels are probability based, meaning they use random sampling methods to recruit respondents. They are not “opt-in” polls . In total, 1,941 Jewish and 414 Muslim respondents participated in this survey.

In this report, Jews and Muslims are defined as U.S. adults who answer a question about their current religion by saying they are Jewish or Muslim, respectively. Unlike our 2020 report on Jews in America , this report does not analyze the views of “Jews of no religion” (i.e., people who identify as Jewish culturally, ethnically or by family background but not by religion).

While the sample design was identical for Jews and Muslims, the resulting sample sizes are different. There are two main reasons for this. The Jewish population in the U.S. is roughly double the size of the Muslim population . Consequently, national survey panels have roughly twice as many or more Jewish panelists as Muslim ones. In addition, decades of research on survey nonresponse has shown that some groups in the U.S. are more likely to participate in surveys than others. Generally speaking, Jewish adults are more likely to participate in surveys than Muslim adults.

• 70% say expressing support for “Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state” should be allowed.
• 58% say expressing opposition to Israel’s right to exist should be allowed.
• 66% say speech supporting “Palestinians having their own state” should be allowed.
• 61% say speech opposing a Palestinian state should be allowed.
• One-in-ten say calls for violence against either Jews or Muslims should be allowed.

On the questions about speech related to statehood, substantial shares of respondents are not sure. For example, 23% say they aren’t sure whether speech opposing Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state should be allowed. And 25% say they aren’t sure whether speech opposing Palestinian statehood should be allowed.

When it comes to speech advocating violence, however, there is less uncertainty. Roughly three-quarters of Americans say that calls for violence against either Muslims or Jews should not be allowed.

The survey comes amid a flurry of news reports about antisemitic and anti-Muslim incidents in the United States, especially on college campuses , where fierce debates have erupted over the limits of free speech . For many Jewish and Muslim Americans, these debates are not just ideological, but personal:

• 74% of U.S. Jews and 60% of U.S. Muslims surveyed say they have felt offended by something they saw on the news or social media about the Israel-Hamas war.
• 27% of Muslims and 26% of Jews in the survey say they have stopped talking to someone in person – or unfollowed or blocked someone online – because of something that person said about the war.

A previous Pew Research Center report, based on the same survey, examined the U.S. public’s views on the war, including questions about:

• The acceptability of Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack and Israel’s military response
• Americans’ attention to the war
• Americans’ knowledge about the war
• The emotions the conflict has unleashed

In this report, we focus on perceived levels of discrimination against Jews, Muslims and Arab people in the U.S. For context, we analyze perceptions of discrimination against other religious, racial and ethnic groups, including evangelical Christians and Asian, Black, Hispanic and White Americans ( Chapter 1 ).

We also delve into public attitudes toward speech related to the war, including how these views vary by age, education, political partisanship and other demographic factors ( Chapter 2 ).

How much discrimination do U.S. Jews and Muslims see against their own group?

The vast majority of U.S. Muslims surveyed (85%) say there is at least some discrimination against Muslims in our society today, including 67% who say there is a lot . Overall, Muslim respondents are more likely to feel there is at least some discrimination against their own religious group than to say the same about Jews (50%).

An overwhelming majority of U.S. Jews (94%) say there is at least some discrimination against Jews in our society, including 72% who say there is a lot . And more say there is a lot of discrimination against Jews than say the same about Muslims (57%).

For Jews, this represents a shift: In our 2020 and 2013 surveys of American Jews, they were more likely to say that Muslims (as well as Black people) face a lot of discrimination than to say this about themselves. 1

The change in Jewish Americans’ perceptions appears to be tied, at least in part, to the conflict in the Middle East: 89% of Jewish respondents say they have perceived a rise in discrimination against Jews since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.

They are not alone in feeling the effects of the conflict. Seven-in-ten Muslim respondents say discrimination against Muslims has risen since the start of the war. (Jewish and Muslim Americans are also paying greater attention to news about the Israel-Hamas war than most other Americans.)

In addition, most Muslims and nearly half of Jews say discrimination has increased against Arabs since the war began.

Unlike most U.S. polls, this survey has enough Jewish and Muslim respondents to allow their opinions to be broken out separately . Although Arab Americans also are included in the survey, there are not enough of them to reliably represent the views of Arab Americans as a whole. All three groups are very small in proportion to the overall U.S. population, which makes it hard to get a representative estimate through random sampling alone.

Free speech and the Israel-Hamas war

The survey included several questions to gauge tolerance for public speech about Israeli and Palestinian statehood, asking whether people in the U.S. should be able to express these sentiments – even if they might offend some people. Outright opposition to these expressions of opinion are relatively rare; instead, sizable shares say they are unsure. In contrast, most Americans say public speech calling for violence against Jews or Muslims should not be allowed.

Like the public overall, a large majority of U.S. Jews are in favor of allowing people to express support for Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state (92%). Majorities of Jews also say speech either supporting (77%) or opposing (74%) Palestinians having their own state should be allowed. But Jews are less likely to say this about speech opposing Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state: 55% say this kind of speech should be allowed, while 34% say it should not be allowed.

Similarly, a solid majority of U.S. Muslims say that speech supporting a Palestinian state should be allowed (70%). About half of Muslims say people should be allowed to express support for (47%) or opposition to (50%) Israel’s existence as a Jewish state. And 43% of Muslims say that speech opposing a Palestinian state should be allowed; 27% say this kind of speech should not be allowed, and 28% are unsure.

Like many public attitudes toward the Israel-Hamas war, opinions on these issues vary depending on people’s age, political party and education:

• Compared with other age groups, Americans 65 and older are more likely to say there is a lot of discrimination against Jews in our society today. Older Americans are far more likely to report an increase in discrimination against Jews than against Muslims or Arabs.
• By contrast, Americans ages 18 to 29 are more likely to say that Black, Muslim, Arab and Hispanic people experience a lot of discrimination than to say the same about Jews. Adults under 30 are equally likely to perceive an increase in discrimination against Muslims, Arabs and Jews since the start of the Israel-Hamas war (47% each).
• People ages 65 and older are the most likely to say they have felt personally offended by something they saw on the news or social media about the war (41%).
• Adults under 30 are the most likely to say they stopped talking to someone, or unfollowed or blocked someone online, because of something that person said about the Israel-Hamas war (16%).

Partisanship

• Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents are generally more likely than Republicans and Republican leaners to say there is a lot of discrimination against the groups asked about in the survey; Democrats are most likely to say there is a lot of discrimination against Black people (62%), Muslims (61%), Arab people (55%) and Jews (41%).
• Republicans are most likely to say there is a lot of discrimination against Jews (40%), followed by Muslims (27%), evangelical Christians (24%) and White people (24%).
• Democrats are about twice as likely as Republicans to say that, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, discrimination has increased against Muslims (52% vs. 26%) and Arabs (49% vs. 23%).
• Republicans (61%) and Democrats (57%) largely agree that discrimination against Jews has increased since the outbreak of the war.
• Republicans and Democrats are also broadly in sync on the survey’s questions about speech. They largely are in favor of allowing expressions for or against statehood, but do not think calls for violence should be allowed.
• Americans with at least a college degree are more likely than those with less education to say discrimination against Jews, Muslims and Arabs has increased since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.
• People with at least a college degree are far more likely than those with less education to say that speech supporting and opposing Israeli or Palestinian statehood should be allowed. Those with lower levels of education are much more likely to say they are unsure.
• The 2013 survey of Jewish Americans included a similar question about discrimination, but the response options were different. The 2020 survey response options were “A lot,” “Some,” “Not much” and “None at all,” while in the 2013 survey the response options were “Yes, there is a lot of discrimination” and “No, not a lot of discrimination.” Despite this change, both of these previous surveys found that more Jews perceived a lot of discrimination against some other minority groups than against Jews. ↩

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About Pew Research Center Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts .

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Yes, we’re divided. But new AP-NORC poll shows Americans still agree on most core American values

Most U.S. adults share many core values on what it means to be an American despite the country’s deep political polarization according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

FILE - The Capitol is seen as water sprinklers soak the National Mall on a hot summer morning in Washington, July 15, 2022. A new poll finds that most Americans share many core values on what it means to be an American despite the country’s deep political polarization. The poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that about 9 in 10 U.S. adults say the right to vote, the right to equal protection under the law and the right to privacy are important or very important to the U.S.’s identity as a nation.(AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Despite the country’s deep political polarization, most Americans share many core beliefs about what it means to be an American, according to a new poll.

The poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that about 9 in 10 U.S. adults say the right to vote, the right to equal protection under the law and the right to privacy are extremely important or very important to the United States’ identity as a nation. The survey also found that 84% feel the same way about the freedom of religion.

The results, which included perspectives on a number of different freedoms and rights, have only small variances between Republicans and Democrats except on the right to bear arms, which Republicans are more likely to see as core to the nation’s identity. The overall findings are striking because they come at a time of extreme partisanship when political agreements seem rare and concerns are heightened over the potential for violence during a volatile presidential election year.

“If you get a bunch of normal people at random and put them in a room together and chat about issues, there’s a lot more convergence than you might imagine,” said Michael Albertus, a political science professor at the University of Chicago.

A more pessimistic assessment of the country was reflected in another finding — that only about 3 in 10 Americans believe the nation’s democracy is functioning well. About half say the U.S. is a poorly functioning democracy, while 14% say the U.S. is not a democracy.

The tension between the broad consensus on the country’s fundamental values and discontent with how well its form of government is working is not a surprise, experts say.

“Part of it is really our leaders are not reflecting the electorate, and they behave in a way that’s much more polarized than what the electorate is,” said Lilliana Mason, a political scientist at Johns Hopkins University.

Most Americans, she said, “are pretty moderate, but they’ve been riled up to hate people of the other party for being different from them culturally, racially and religiously.”

The AP-NORC poll also found broad agreement on the importance of some key values for the U.S.’s identity as a country. About three-quarters of U.S. adults agree that a democratically elected government is extremely or very important, and about 8 in 10 think the same about the ability of people living in the U.S. to get good jobs and achieve the American dream.

But what achieving that dream means — and which values are most fundamental to American culture — isn’t something all Americans agree on.

Democrats are more likely than Republicans — 71% to 38% — to believe that the ability to come to the U.S. from elsewhere in the world to escape violence or find economic opportunities is core to the country’s identity. A majority of Republicans, 58%, think a culture grounded in Christian values and beliefs is an essential characteristic, compared to only 18% of Democrats.

Juan Sierra, 51, a naturalized citizen whose family immigrated from the Dominican Republic after a hurricane destroyed his father’s cement business, said it is very important to him that the U.S. be seen as a place of opportunity.

The Capitol is seen as water sprinklers soak the National Mall on a hot summer morning in Washington, July 15, 2022. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

The industrial technician in Port St. Lucie, Florida, said he believes democracy is working and will continue to do so “as long as there are good people in government.”

Sierra also said it was extremely important that people have freedom of religion, although he had concerns over the nation’s identity being tied to Christianity.

“We’re seeing what happens right now when laws are passed and decisions are made based on someone’s religion,” he said, citing the Alabama Supreme Court ruling in February that frozen embryos can be considered children and be afforded legal protections, a decision that temporarily halted IVF procedures in the state.

Susan Johnson, a 76-year-old Republican living in the Dallas suburbs, said the nation’s standing as a beacon to others who need refuge is very important, but said that could not override concerns about border security.

“We need people working,” she said. “We just need them to come the right way.”

Johnson also said she believes it’s extremely important that the nation’s identity be grounded in spirituality.

“Whether or not you’re Mormon or a Muslim or a Christian, they just have to have some higher power to reach up to,” she said. “The country is going to fall apart if we don’t believe in God.”

The poll found few divisions on democracy as a system in theory, but it identified one notable gap: younger Americans between the ages of 18 to 29 were less likely than those 60 and older to say the U.S. is a well-functioning democracy. They’re also less likely than older Americans to believe that some characteristics are essential to the U.S.’s character as a nation, including having a democratically elected government. About 6 in 10 younger adults see this as important, compared to about 9 in 10 older adults.

Palakjot Singh, a 21-year-old college student in Fresno, California, identified himself as a Republican and said he had a better quality of life when Donald Trump was president. He said the U.S. is not a well-functioning democracy in part because people are not open to debating different points of view compared to previous generations.

“There is not good communication,” he said. “Nobody is sitting together trying to get to one point.”

Howard Lavine, a political science professor at the University of Minnesota, said the generational split is understandable. Many younger people don’t remember a time when those with opposing views and from different political backgrounds could get together and “come over to your house.” Their frame of reference is the hyper partisanship of the Trump years, he said.

Joe Lagle, 55, a retired Air Force veteran in Colorado Springs who said he has not voted for either President Joe Biden or Trump, said the nation’s various rights are “all important” but believes they are being eroded by intolerance and well-meaning but shortsighted people.

Mike Maloy, 41, an engineer in Greensboro, North Carolina, said having those rights and freedoms “doesn’t necessarily mean the U.S. is a functioning democracy.”

“Everything is run by a handful of people and their corporations,” he said. “That’s not a democracy.”

A Democrat, Maloy cited as an example this year’s presidential primary in North Carolina, when Biden was the lone candidate on the ballot. He called that “frustrating” and said the result was that voters “had no choice.”

The poll of 1,282 adults was conducted March 21-25, 2024, using a sample drawn from NORC’s probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel, which is designed to be representative of the U.S. population. The margin of sampling error for all respondents is plus or minus 3.8 percentage points.

Associated Press polling writer Linley Sanders contributed to this report.

The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about AP’s democracy initiative here . The AP is solely responsible for all content.