




World-class
research
Our distinguished faculty do field-defining work and develop the values, vision, and ethical compass of tomorrow’s leaders. They produce operas alongside research that makes the world a better place.
Without human understanding, there is no understanding. The School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences is home to scholars and artists who are doing transformative work in fields that are vital to addressing the world’s most important challenges.

Making classical music and math more accessible
In math and in music, senior Holden Mui values interesting ideas, solving problems creatively, and finding meaning in their structures. “People want fresh, new, non-recycled approaches to math and music,” he says.

On technology in schools, think evolution, not revolution
“You can absolutely improve schools,” Justin Reich, an associate professor in MIT’s Comparative Media Studies/Writing program says. “And we improve schools all the time. It’s just a long, slow process, and everything is kind of incremental.”
Learn more about the research of our exceptional faculty.

Study in India shows kids use different math skills at work vs. school
A new study in India co-authored by MIT economists Esther Duflo and Abhijit Banerjee shows a wide gap between the kinds of math problems kids who work in retail markets do well and the kinds of problems kids in school do well.

Examining American attitudes on global climate policies
Evan Lieberman, director of MIT’s Center for International Studies, describes new research in which he and colleagues find a sharp partisan divide over providing aid to poor nations. “Our research suggests that emphasizing a bit of blaming and shaming is more powerful than more diffuse messages of shared responsibility,” he explains.
SHASS offers an wide array of events through our departments, programs, and centers. We’ve featured some upcoming events below. See our events calendar for opportunities to drink tea with luminaries from SHASS fields, hear groundbreaking ideas at a symposium, or attend a film screening.

Wild Surroundings: Kinetic in Concert
Kinetic Ensemble presents Wild Surroundings: Kinetic in Concert, an immersive performance experience at MIT’s new Thomas Tull Concert Hall. Saturday, Feb. 22, 7:30-9:00 pm.

Emerson/Harris Masterclass: Mary Grace Johnson, violin
MIT Music invites you to a new Emerson/Harris Masterclass on Monday, February 17 at 4:30 p.m. in Building 14’s Killian Hall. The performance features violinist Mary Grace Johnson, a co-leader and program curator for condcutorless string orchestra Kinetic Ensemble and a strong advocate for new music.
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.

Body of knowledge
A new MIT class explores the pedagogical possibilities of dance.

Cultivators of research
Professors Maria Yang and Kenneth Oye are honored as “Committed to Caring” for their mentorship of graduate students.

Bridging philosophy and AI to explore computing ethics
In a new MIT course co-taught by EECS and philosophy professors, students tackle moral dilemmas of the digital age.