Research
The School of Social Sciences and Philosophy is at the forefront of research and teaching across the disciplines of philosophy, political science, economics and sociology. It has an international reputation for its research on issues of global societal and economic importance such as migration, development, international macroeconomics and political and economic integration in Europe. Particular strengths at a departmental level are outlined below.
Department of Economics
The Department of Economics has a strong research record, with a particular emphasis on applied economics. Its main research strengths include international macroeconomics and various areas in applied microeconomics (including international development, energy economics, urban economics, cultural economics and industrial economics). It has been successful in attracting financial support from the Irish Research Council, Irish Aid, Science Foundation Ireland, PRTLI, the EU Framework Programmes, NORFACE, the World Bank, Fondation Banque de France and the Institute for New Economic Thinking (INET).
Department of Philosophy
The Department of Philosophy has a well-established international reputation for innovative research across many areas of philosophy. While much of its research is in the broad analytical tradition, this is complemented by a strong interest in history of philosophy. The department has particular strengths in metaphysics, epistemology, philosophy of language, philosophy of religion and ethics, as well as expertise in ancient philosophy, medieval philosophy, early modern philosophy, modern European philosophy and history of analytic philosophy.
Department of Political Science
The Department of Political Science's research activity makes it one of the very top political science departments in Europe, and indeed in the world. It is known world-wide for its work on the European Union, comparative politics and comparative political institutions, with an emphasis on voting behaviour, political parties, legislatures, elections, and electoral systems. It is also strong in the areas of international relations, public policy, Irish politics, democratic theory, and African politics.
Department of Sociology
The Department of Sociology maintains an active programme of cutting edge and policy-relevant research. In its research, the department collaborates with various international partners and the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI). The department specialises in four main areas: (1) migration, integration and identities (2) employment, education and stratification, (3) power, conflict and resistance, and (4) digitalisation and social networks. The department has a strong track record in attracting funding from national and European academically-oriented and policy-oriented agencies.