FMSH and the Social Science Research Council Lay the Foundation for International Cooperation

A strategic alliance to advance research in the humanities and social sciences.

An original institution at the heart of the humanities and social sciences, the Fondation Maison des Sciences de l’Homme (FMSH) pursues a structured strategy aimed at sustainably strengthening the role and international reach of the humanities and social sciences. Having developed academic partnerships with the United States for several years, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Social Science Research Council (SSRC) fully aligns with the partnership-driven dynamic through which the Foundation seeks to expand its impact.

Since 1963, FMSH has advanced research in the humanities and social sciences. It promotes dialogue and international cooperation, while ensuring that the humanities and social sciences remain closely connected to society. Through its programs, the Foundation contributes to renewing research perspectives and shedding light on major contemporary debates.

I recall visiting FMSH as a young faculty member back in 1984, when I had the chance to meet with Pierre Bourdieu and Raymond Boudon. I felt like I had arrived at the center of the sociological universe,” said Woody Powell, the Co-Interim President of SSRC. “I’m very excited to be signing this collaborative agreement with the Maison and the SSRC.

Woody Powell, co-président par interim du SSRC

The Social Science Research Council (SSRC) is a leading institution in supporting social science research, recognized for its commitment to international cooperation, scientific innovation, and the analysis of major global challenges.

The convergence of the missions and values of the two institutions naturally led to the formalization of this partnership.

FMSH’s work is grounded in the dissemination of knowledge and is embedded within an ecosystem of partner institutions abroad. Today, we are both pleased and particularly honored to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Social Science Research Council, a prestigious U.S. institution with which we share major objectives, particularly the development of collective dynamics in the humanities and social sciences, and the recognition of their contribution to the major societal challenges of our time as well as to the protection of fundamental freedoms.

Antonin Cohen, President of the Board, FMSH

The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding aims to provide a structured framework enabling FMSH and the SSRC to explore and develop joint initiatives, including research programs, scholarly exchanges, comparative initiatives, and projects fostering the international circulation of ideas and researchers.

Through this partnership, FMSH and the SSRC reaffirm their shared ambition to advance the humanities and social sciences, contributing to a deeper understanding of contemporary societies and the challenges they face.

About the SSRC

The Social Science Research Council, founded in 1923, fosters innovative research, nurtures new generations of social scientists, deepens how inquiry is practiced within and across disciplines, and mobilizes necessary knowledge on important public issues.

About the FMSH

Created in 1963 by the historian Fernand Braudel, the Fondation Maison des Science de l’Homme fosters research in the humanities and social sciences, aiming to deepen our understanding of past, present, and future worlds while addressing the common challenges facing humanity.