Catholic social scientists have convened near Cleveland this weekend for a conference that integrates Catholic theology and social teachings with scholarly work across various disciplines. The Society of Catholic Social Scientists (SCSS), which was established in 1992 by political scientist Stephen M. Krason, is hosting its 34th National Meeting from October 23 to 24 at John Carroll University in University Heights, Ohio.
Prior to the event, Krason, who is a professor emeritus of political science at Franciscan University of Steubenville, expressed that a primary objective of SCSS is to “bring Catholic teaching and a Catholic understanding and a Catholic worldview to the work they do in their disciplines.”
Topics to be discussed during the conference include pressing issues like artificial intelligence (AI), immigration policy, just war doctrine, and euthanasia, alongside discussions of Catholic history in the United States, particularly in light of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
As stated on the SCSS website, the organization aims to align with St. John XXIII’s encyclical Mater et Magistra, encouraging Christians to “conform their behavior in economic and social affairs to the teachings of the Church.”
Krason noted that before the conference, members submit proposals for papers, which often contribute content to SCSS’s scholarly journal, the Catholic Social Science Review (CSSR). Full members of SCSS must profess their adherence to the Church’s teachings, and Krason mentioned that members generally seek a robust orthodox Catholic network. Submitted papers are reviewed to ensure they align with Catholic doctrine.
While most presenters are SCSS members, the organization also welcomes associate members who are not Catholic, as well as students pursuing master’s degrees. SCSS encourages participation from scholars across a range of social sciences, including political science, economics, psychology, sociology, and law.
Upcoming Conference
The conference promises to cover a wide array of topics, determined largely by member submissions. Notably, one focus will be Pope Leo XIV’s recent encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, which addresses AI and Catholic social teaching, emphasizing concerns regarding human dignity and transhumanism.
Another significant topic for discussion is immigration, particularly in the context of President Donald Trump’s policies on mass deportation, along with the balance between national sovereignty and human dignity.
In addition, talks will examine political theory relating to natural law and labor issues, alongside a Thomistic perspective on usury and modern banking practices. Some discussions will also highlight the American South, particularly the principle of subsidiarity and the political theories of John C. Calhoun.
The conference will focus on just war doctrine, including an exploration of different papal approaches throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. SCSS will honor Clark Massey, founder of A Simple House, with the Blessed Frederic Ozanam Award for Catholic Social Action. Additionally, Patrick J. Deneen, a political scientist from Notre Dame, will receive the Pope Pius XI Award for his contributions in the field. Deneen expressed his gratitude for the recognition and underscored the importance of understanding social science through a framework consistent with Catholic teachings.
