Opening the doors of perception: Perspectives on SHASS
Research spotlight: Eran Egozy on blending music and technology
World-class
research
Without human understanding, there is no understanding. We are home to scholars and artists doing transformative work in fields vital to addressing the world’s most important challenges. Our faculty develop the values, vision, and ethical compass of tomorrow’s leaders.
In SHASS, we explore the human, societal, and ethical implications of implementing new technologies like AI.
Exploring the impacts of technology on everyday citizens
Dwai Banerjee, an Associate Professor in MIT’s Program in Science, Technology, and society, examines topics ranging from cancer care to the history of computing. “For some people, building on their previous work is best, but I need new ideas to keep me going,” he says.
Bridging philosophy and AI to explore computing ethics
In a new MIT course co-taught by EECS and philosophy professors, 6.C40/24.C40 (Ethics of Computing), students tackle moral dilemmas of the digital age.
Our faculty are seeking solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges through innovative economic research.
Can algorithms improve research quality?
MIT economist Ashesh Rambachan’s research investigates how algorithms can potentially improve behavioral economics. “People rarely make decisions in isolation,” he says. “They make decisions with algorithms providing them with suggestions.”
A behavioral economist’s approach to AI
MIT economist and computer scientist Sendhil Mullainathan wants to use technology to solve human-centered challenges.
SHASS is home to the Department of Political Science, one of the world’s leading centers for the study of politics.
Q&A: A new initiative to help strengthen democracy
David Singer, head of the MIT Department of Political Science, discusses the Strengthening Democracy Initiative, focused on the rigorous study of elections, public opinion, and political participation.
Insights into political outsiders
MIT political scientist Ariel White studies people on the margins of U.S. politics to see if they might participate more fully in our system of government. “I think there is a much broader story to be told here,” says White.
SHASS community spotlight
The SHASS community is made of inspiring students, staff, and faculty. Meet these individuals who have big impacts in the corridors of MIT and beyond.
Latest news from SHASS
Our work has broad impact at MIT and across the globe. Read the latest about new ideas coming out of SHASS.
Usha Lee McFarling named director of the Knight Science Journalism Program
McFarling, Pulitzer-prize winning journalist and national science correspondent for STAT, was a 1992-93 Knight Science Journalism Fellow.
Steven Truong ’20 named 2025 Knight-Hennessy Scholar
The prestigious fellowship, which honors independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and civic mindset, funds graduate studies at Stanford University.
MIT Department of Economics to launch James M. and Cathleen D. Stone Center on Inequality and Shaping the Future of Work
With support from the Stone Foundation, the center will advance cutting-edge research and inform policy.
