Institute of Human Sciences

The Institute for Human Sciences stands in Vienna’s ninth district, a quiet part of the city where tree-lined streets meet classical apartment blocks. Founded in 1982 by the Polish philosopher Krzysztof Michalski, it became an independent centre for advanced study in the humanities and social sciences. The institute has been led by figures such as Shalini Randeria and Misha Glenny, each shaping its focus on urgent social questions. It brings together scholars from Eastern and Western Europe, North America and beyond to work on topics like democracy, inequality and legal pluralism. Core funding comes from the Austrian government and the city of Vienna, with additional support from international foundations. The institute publishes its findings in journals and monographs, making its debates public through lectures and conferences. Its permanent fellows include well-known names such as Ivan Krastev, Timothy Snyder and Charles Taylor, who contribute to research across eight fields. Each year about a hundred fellows and guests come to Vienna to pursue their own projects while taking part in the institute’s programmes. The institute also hosts public events that draw broad audiences and develops policy-oriented initiatives. Its biannual journal Transit-Europäische Revue and the magazine IWMpost reach readers across Europe and beyond. Collaborations with institutions like the Center for Urban History of East Central Europe extend its reach into specialist networks. Visitors to the institute find a calm, scholarly atmosphere in a residential neighbourhood near the city centre. The building itself is unassuming, designed for quiet discussion rather than grand display. Inside, small seminar rooms host debates among fellows and invited speakers. The library holds collections that support research in philosophy, law and social theory. Outside, the surrounding streets offer cafés and parks where scholars often continue their conversations. The institute’s location keeps it close to Vienna’s cultural life while maintaining the focus needed for serious intellectual work.