Studies in the Social Sciences (SitSS) is an open-access journal published by the University College at the University of West Georgia. The Journal is provides a forum for peer-reviewed research for academia in all social sciences, including political science, sociology, criminology, mass communications, anthropology, psychology, economics, history, geography, and all others. We invite the submission of the highest quality research that incorporates practical advice to stakeholders, decision makers, and leaders and groups that seek the advancement of human society and the elevation of the human condition. Studies in the Social Sciences serves the interdisciplinary mission of the University. We particularly encourage work that is committed to the concept of both micro and macro level responsible research.

The Evolving Principles of Responsible Research

The responsible conduct of research is based on fundamental human values, wherever it is based. First, research must be honest: that is, research and the dissemination of results must be open, full, and without deception; we must disseminate the results of the research into the hands of those who can use it to make a difference and we must safeguard it from those who would use it to do harm.

Second, research must be fair: we must treat colleagues and students without bias, giving credit where it is due (and not giving it when it is not), and mentoring students equally whatever their background, gender, or national origin. Responsible research should be inclusive of underrepresented groups and people as both researchers and stakeholders.

Third, when we research, we must look beyond our preconceptions and we must privilege observation and empirical evidence: that is, we must be objective. Although we are all inherently biased, we can overcome those biases when we acknowledge them. We must also be skeptical, and constantly reexamine and re-test our results. We must take nothing as a given.

Research must be reliable – that is, the methods must be replicable – and it must be accountable to other researchers. Our findings and our data must be openly available and we must safeguard against microethical concerns.

Finally, research must be socially responsible; that is, it should be explicit in its efforts to improve upon the human condition and to safeguard human society. That is, research should also focus on macroethical concerns.

Studies in the Social Sciences is currently recruiting Editorial Board members as well as an Associate Editor primarily responsible for book reviews.

To apply for Editorial Board membership, please email sjournal@westga.edu or hmbaye@westga.edu and include the following information:

• Name
• Position
• Department
• Organizational Affiliation
• Address
• Phone/ Mobile
• Your area (s) of interest
• Number of reviews that you can do per month