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The Fundación Urrutia-Elejalde and the Fundación Betiko/Ibarra-Oriol are organising the Fourth Summer School on Economics and Philosophy, from July 23 th to July 27th, 2001, in San Sebastian (Spain) under the title: 

"Polarization and Conflict".

Income distribution in many countries is becoming increasingly polarised, reflecting an increase in social segmentation, with many groups excluded. This increased level of segmentation weakens the social cohesion necessary for the non-violent resolution of the demands of conflicting interests. There is evidence of a watering down of civic culture and social capital, clearly demonstrating at the same time the unquestionable role of these aspects in the government of society. This growing social fragmentation is also evident in the increasing electoral abstention rate among marginalised sectors of society. In this sense, the conflict-moderating capacity of the democratic political system, as a mechanism of participation and integration, is also enfeebled. 

The summer school will consist of two different phases:

      23^rd and 24^th of July.
 

Objective

To disseminate information concerning the different approaches being developed, and to facilitate the co-ordination of participants' research activities. This phase is directed at academics actively carrying out research on "polarisation and conflict".

Participants

The workshop will be open only to those well-established researchers expressly invited to participate. The workshop is designed to co-ordinate research activities and, for this reason, participation will be restricted to those who are actively carrying out research.
 
 

        25^th to 27^th of July.

Objective

To inform recent PhD graduates and doctoral students of the different lines of investigation and their potential. The subject area is clearly multidisciplinary. The course, aimed at social scientists of all fields, will be decidedly analytical.

To promote reflection and discussion on fundamental topics, as well as personal contacts between first rate professors and young researchers. Each session is planned to include two lectures about a key issue on polarization and conflicts followed by a general discussion among all those attending. Space will made available for brief communications by others participants.
 
 

The course will be open to advanced doctoral students and young researchers who wish to become familiar with the state of research in this field.