What is the Festival of Social Science?
The ESRC Festival of Social Science is a celebration of the social sciences. It began life in 2003 as Social Science Week - a collection of around 25 events, mainly seminars aimed towards an academic audience. Over the years Social Science Week has grown to a much larger and more inclusive 'festival' of activities, aimed at policymakers, business, the public and young people alike.
In 2009 we saw approximately 6,000 people attend over 110 different events across the UK. The variety of activities included public debates, secondary school level events, film screenings, theatrical performances, and hands on events. Interactive activities included workshops on sign language, art in genomics, face identification and helping people know if they are getting the best energy deal for their homes.
The Festival of Social Science is a key element of the ESRC's science in society strategy and its commitment to promoting awareness of UK social science research to new audiences.
For 2010 the Festival will continue to run alongside the British Science Association's National Science and Engineering Week (12-21 March) and shall continue to promote how social science has a role in all of our lives.
Next: What kinds of activities take place during the Festival?