From the Enlightenment to the Information Age

The Adam Smith Research Foundation (ASRF) is based within the College of Social Sciences to promote and sustain research within the UK, European and international arenas. The Foundation promotes the engagement of staff in key policy debates and in shaping policy for the future. It provides the environment in which to foster further links between the College's disciplines and supports the development of interdisciplinary research both within and beyond the University.

The Foundation seeks to honour the Enlightenment legacy of Adam Smith (1723-1790) with independent, original research that impartially advances knowledge in the Information Age.

The Foundation aims to support and encourage interdisciplinary research and collaboration within the 7 cross-College Research Themes:

• Globalisation, Competitiveness and Sustainability
• Governance, Policy, Accountability and Risk Management
• Health and Wellbeing
• Inequalities, Inclusion, Identities and Social Change 
• Justice, Rights, Security and Conflict
• Learning Across the Professions
• People, Places, Engagement and Change