The golden age of social science

Social science is entering a golden age, marked by the confluence of explosive growth in new data and analytic methods, interdisciplinary approaches, and a recognition that these ingredients are necessary to solve the more challenging problems facing our world. We discuss how developing a lingua franca can encourage more interdisciplinary research, providing two case studies (social networks and behavioral economics) to illustrate this theme. Several exemplar studies from the past 12 y are also provided. We conclude by addressing the challenges that accompany these positive trends, such as career incentives and the search for unifying frameworks, and associated best practices that can be employed in response.

Automated summary

Social science is entering a golden age with explosive growth in new data and analytic methods, interdisciplinary approaches, and a recognition of their importance in solving challenging global problems. Developing a lingua franca can encourage more interdisciplinary research, as demonstrated through case studies in social networks and behavioral economics. Challenges such as career incentives and the search for unifying frameworks need to be addressed with best practices in response.