A world that needs answers.
The 20th century was shaped more than anything else by revolutionary advances in science and technology. Huge leaps in engineering, digital technology, medicine, agriculture, global transport and logistics and much more have transformed the lives of billions around the world.
These changes enabled many to live longer, improved standards of living and brought people and cultures together across great distances. But they have also worsened existing challenges and created urgent new ones – our economies, our natural environment and our democratic and social institutions are straining under the pressure.
In the 21st century, we need a new scientific revolution – one driven by the social sciences and aimed at shaping the world for the better in the face of looming challenges.
- We need democracies that unite and empower people.
- We need economies that improve lives and are fit for the modern world.
- We need a sustainable future that works for people and the planet.
- We need fairer, more equal societies.
- We need technology to drive positive change for all.
LSE is the university built to respond.
LSE has been the world’s leading centre of research and teaching in the social sciences for 130 years. Now, we’re putting the expertise of our faculty, the passion of our students and the power of our global network of partners and alumni to work to help shape the world we all need.
Our Shaping the World Campaign brings together supporters from around the world. Through philanthropy and volunteering, they power the School’s cutting-edge research, create future leaders by supporting today’s students and connect institutions by enabling LSE to act as a global convenor.
The challenges we face are urgent, and the global leadership of the LSE community is needed now more than ever. Are you ready to help shape the world for the better?
LSE’s focus on social science - broad but anchored in the kind of thinking and analysis that goes into policy making - and our convening power to bring the world together from our home in London, the global capital of the world, make us unique and a unique place from which solutions can be developed and disseminated for the betterment of society.
Partner with us today as we tackle these global challenges.
LSE’s brilliant thinkers, rigorous researchers and global conveners are uniquely positioned to deliver impact. When you support LSE, you power their work.
Donate to our Scholarship Fund
LSE’s mission depends on welcoming the most talented students, regardless of background. Today, that mission is under threat. Rising demand for scholarships, economic uncertainty, and global instability are putting access to an LSE education for many at risk - just when the world needs a diversity of ideas and perspectives the most.
Outstanding students need your support to become future leaders.
Scholarships don’t just change a student’s life. They shape the future of their families, their communities and the world. Invest today to support the leaders of tomorrow.
Outstanding students need your support to become future leaders
Learn about our Scholarship and Hardship Funds
LSE President on the five global challenges
Professor Larry Kramer became President and Vice Chancellor of the London School of Economics and Political Science in April 2024. In this video he speaks about the global challenges we are facing and the role the social sciences play in tackling them.
Shaping the world needs you
Breakthroughs are made when we all rise to the challenge.