• Problems are imbedded in a complex system. Problems are closely 

 interrelated, making it difficult to treat one effectively 

 without treating the whole or without adversely affecting 

 connected problems. These interdependencies strain the 

 capacity of social institutions, whose vitality and scope may 

 be less than the force and breadth of the problems 

 themselves. 



• Problems may be heightened by other developments. Rapid changes of 

 almost any kind may produce at least temporary disruptions 

 in a system which is so tightly interconnected. Increasing 

 population and urbanization are but two factors which 

 intensify already existing strains. 



• Possible resolutions may threaten values and vested interests. Potential 

 approaches to alleviating social problems may conflict with 

 deeply held beliefs, especially if they involve the 

 redistribution of political, economic, and social power. 



• Inadequate knowledge impedes action. The necessary knowledge 

 for predicting the individual and social reactions to public 

 policies or actions does not yet exist. 



These are only a few of the obstacles in meeting the social 

 challenges. The tasks which these problems pose for science are 

 immense. Although they involve the whole of science, the tasks apply 

 particularly to the least developed of the disciplines — the behavioral 

 and social sciences. These disciplines need to be significantly 

 strengthened, in both their basic and applied aspects, if the Nation is to 

 respond more successfully to its social problems. Although knowledge 

 alone does not guarantee success, its lack almost certainly reduces the 

 chance and extent of progress. 



The prime deficiencies of the knowledge base are inadequate 

 information on the current state of society and lack of detailed data 

 about particular individual and social problems. The expansion of 

 effort in the social indicators area, as well as in large survey research, is 

 essential for correcting these deficiencies. A related requirement is 

 improved methods for gathering data and for analyzing and 

 synthesizing the findings in forms relevant to social action. The 

 significance of scientific information is that it can provide evidence for 

 needed social change as well as suggest courses of action. Such 

 information, if definitive, can be used to counter inertia or "vested 

 interests," which are frequently the chief obstacles to social reform. 

 Finally, and most fundamental, is the need for general, comprehensive 

 theories of the individual and of the structure and dynamics of social 

 systems. No such broad theories now exist that are based upon data, 

 except in the field of economics. Such theories are necessary to: 



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