The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Research and Communication in the Social Sciences and Humanities

Dear Colleagues,

The undeniable and inevitable rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in various fields of human activity presents both remarkable opportunities and potential risks for scientific research. While AI promises significant advances, its integration into research practices raises uncertainties and ethical considerations. These concerns extend beyond the design and conduct of research to the products of scientific inquiry, their dissemination through various communication channels, peer review processes, and engagement with both specialized and broader audiences. As a result, the landscape of scientific activity is undergoing a fundamental transformation, driven by AI-based technologies. This evolving context poses profound challenges to science itself and to researchers. These challenges involve complex and often controversial issues across technical and ethical domains. Key questions include the extent to which AI tools can actively participate in research activities, from analysis and co-authorship to dissemination. In addition, the role of human researchers in knowledge creation and dissemination is under scrutiny. This call highlights the need for proactivity within the Social Sciences and the Humanities regarding the specificities of AI use and its broader implications. This topic aims to foster a deeper understanding of these critical issues and to promote informed practices for the development of rigorous knowledge.

We welcome submissions that address this topic from a variety of theoretical and methodological perspectives and a range of manuscript types, including research articles, reviews, commentaries, and others. We are particularly interested in manuscripts that bridge the gap between technical advances in AI and the specific needs and considerations of research in Social Sciences and the Humanities.

Dr. Sandro Serpa
Dr. Maria José Sá
Topic Editors