Understanding Society

As specialists in people and society, we are concerned about the world around us. We aim to use our research to contribute to a better understanding of society, on the basis of which we can seek solutions to social problems.

Research

Our research into people and society is firmly anchored in the fields of economics, law, humanities (including philosophy, religious studies, communication sciences) and social sciences (sociology and psychology). National assessments and international reviews prove time and again that we achieve good or very good scores in all these fields.

Studying social problems such as an ageing population, religious differences, and financing health care on the basis of a single expertise is no longer enough. Our scientists increasingly face complex themes which require an innovative approach employing several disciplines. Tilburg University has about twenty centers in which academics with all kinds of expertise can work together. These partnerships are innovative and inspiring: new insights and questions often arise precisely at the point where scientific disciplines meet.

A number of multidisciplinary research centers receive additional support from Tilburg University’s Executive Board to develop into an academic Center of Excellence, which will allow them to remain leading in their (international) field of research. An independent committee determines whether these institutes live up to high standards. The International Victimology Institute (INTERVICT) is the first of these centers. INTERVICT conducts interdisciplinary research that contributes to a comprehensive, evidence-based body of knowledge on the empowerment and support of victims of crime and abuse of power.