With this decision, VU Amsterdam takes a deliberate step to forge its own course, aiming to connect and strengthen the fields of social sciences, humanities, religious studies, and theology. This approach ensures that these crucial disciplines are firmly embedded within the broader academic landscape in the Netherlands. VU Amsterdam has chosen this course of action precisely at a time when these disciplines face mounting challenges.
In doing so, the university aligns with the vision of former AWTI president Eppo Bruins, who emphasized that research in the social sciences and humanities “should be a natural part of innovation in society. Many innovations are simply not possible without SGW (social sciences and humanities) research.”1.
As a socially engaged university, VU Amsterdam firmly believes that in an era of rapid technological advancements and complex societal challenges, a robust faculty dedicated to deepening our understanding of people and society is indispensable. Technological progress, without parallel investment in human and social insights, risks being superficial and lacking meaningful impact.
The new faculty integrates diverse forms of knowledge, understanding, and explanation, recognizing the unique contributions of experience, observation, data, measurement, values, worldviews, and meaning. Jeroen Geurts, Rector Magnificus of VU Amsterdam, explains: "The rapid technological advancement of society calls for in-depth study and reflection on society, human behaviour, and ethics. The new faculty embraces this challenge, continuing VU Amsterdam’s longstanding commitment to interpreting, predicting, influencing, and finding meaning in these changes."
The new faculty will develop new and joint initiatives in teaching, research and valorisation, and join forces in operations and administration. As a result, no jobs will be lost.
Further preparations for integration will be made from 1 January 2025 to 1 April 2025.
1 Source: Advisory Council for Science, Technology and Innovation (AWTI) in advisory report ‘Vanzelfsprekende verbinding. Veranker SGW-onderzoek in innovatie’ (translation: Self-evident connection. Anchor SGW research in innovation, ed.)