Opening the doors of perception: Perspectives on SHASS
Does technology displace workers or create new work?
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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.
Nathaniel Hendren wants to understand the conditions of opportunity
The MIT professor of economics studies social mobility and examines which policies can give people a chance to thrive.
Q&A: Claire Walsh on how J-PAL’s King Climate Action Initiative tackles the twin climate and poverty crises
Since 2020, K-CAI has innovated and tested climate policies in more than 35 countries and supported scale-ups that have reached over 15 million people.
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.
The chemistry of creativity
Senior Madison Wang blends science, history, and art to probe how the world works and the tools we use to explore and understand it.
Six from MIT elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences for 2025
The prestigious honor society announces nearly 250 new members.
Enhancing the future of teaching and learning at MIT
The MIT Festival of Learning sparked discussions on better integrating a sense of purpose and social responsibility into hands-on education.
