The Vision and Mission outlined here are the strategic guiding documents of the Institute for Philosophy and Social Theory. The Vision outlines the general aims, as well as contributions IFDT seeks to make, while the Mission elaborates in greater detail the appropriate approaches, principles, and values in achieving the vision.
OUR VISION
Advanced research for social change.
OUR MISSION
IFDT is a community of scientists that fosters reflection, boldness, and a critical approach to research and engaged action; we provide interdisciplinary and socially relevant knowledge to the world at large; we design and implement research on social movements, actively striving for change to the current state of affairs; and we seek to build an open, solidary, and responsible community of researchers with integrity. Insisting on the autonomy of the university, we defend academic freedom in all stages of research as a prerequisite for questioning established and producing new knowledge. Convinced of the important role social sciences and the humanities play in building a better world, we endeavour to continuously communicate our scientific findings with the public, thus encouraging debate and critical thinking.
GOALS AND STRATEGIC AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT
Our Vision rests on a conviction of inextricable bond between science and society, and belief that the aim of conducting scientific research is to contribute to creating a better society. This is clearly translated into our strategic areas of development – science and public engagement. IFDT’s intention is to be an internationally relevant centre of critical social and humanist thought, and be taken by society at large as a central node for competent analysis and critical reflection.
A further strategic area concerns the working community of IFDT itself, that is, creating optimal conditions for research at the Institute, both in terms of material and technical conditions, and more importantly, by fostering an encouraging, solidary and participatory work environment.
The three key strategic goals directly correspond to the strategic areas of development and are derived from the Vision and Mission of IFDT.
The first key strategic goal highlights the profile and scientific priorities of IFDT: a strong focus on international scientific communication, conducting research in the social sciences and humanities, the scope of which surpasses national borders.
The second key strategic goal emphasises IFDT’s resolve to nurture a fruitful connection between science and society. The Institute conducts research on socially relevant topics and strives to be the site of gathering and encounter of various voices and opinions, leading to better and more accountable public policies.
The third strategic goal summarizes the values of the kind of community IFDT has been and wishes to continue building upon – solidary and responsible.
