The social sciences were developed at the end of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the 20th century to help prepare people to address the new problems of emerging industrial society. In the ensuing century, they have become a major part of American higher education, accounting for a disproportionate number of undergraduate majors. How well do the social sciences do today at preparing people to engage the world? Can they still fulfill their original mission?

Bradley W. Bateman, is the Gertrude B. Austin ('09) Professor of Economics. He came to Grinnell in 1987 and teaches writing and economics. His research is in the history of economic ideas.

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