In the video series The Social Science of Amsterdam, six AISSR researchers reflect on ongoing research projects that are deeply embedded in urban life. The videos highlight how social science contributes to understanding and addressing key urban challenges, from social cohesion and inequality to family life, participation and sustainable mobility.

The videos were originally produced for the AISSR Harvest Day 2025 (4 December), where they formed the starting point for interactive workshops between researchers, students and practitioners. They now offer a broader view of how social science research engages with the city of Amsterdam in practice.

Social Networks & Social Cohesion

The first video features political scientists Eelke Heemskerk, Yuliia Kazmina and Laure Michon, who discuss their collaboration with Amsterdam’s Research & Statistics Department (O&S). Using large-scale, anonymised data and innovative network analysis, their research maps social networks and social cohesion at neighbourhood level.

By combining social network data with other urban data, the project provides new insights into patterns of segregation, inequality and connectivity across the city. These insights help better understand how social connections shape opportunities, trust and political engagement, and how data-driven social science can inform public debate and policy in Amsterdam.

Team