Social Science Policy in Eastern Europe
In: International social science journal: ISSJ, Volume 30, Issue 2, p. 407-420
ISSN: 0020-8701
The presence of major worldwide problems requires that social science faces tasks of universal importance. Social science has three interdependent roles in Eastern European countries: they have cognitive, ideological, & utilitarian functions. The dominant perspective is Marxism-Leninism. The progress in the social sciences may be attributed to a willingness to change, its relatively high status in the academies, & the support given by government & lay organizations. The science policy of socialist countries includes a desire to correspond with Western & Third World nations & participate in international organizations. Key elements of the policy include attention to adequate training of scientists, the simplification of funding processes for research, & the specification of the requirements for advanced degrees. Socialist countries make a distinction between humanistic & applied social sciences, the latter being of greater interest to economic development & therefore of more practical interest to the State. Forecasting economic & social development is particularly important. Progress in science is related to political considerations & academic prestige is maintained by partnership with politics, assuming social responsibilities, & fulfilling moral obligations. 1 Table. L. Kamel.