China Social Science Review

No.3, 2021

 

A Study of the Research Competitiveness of Humanities and the Social Sciences in Western China: An Analysis of National Social Sciences Fund Projects during the 13th Five-Year Plan

(Abstract)

 

Yu Qian

 

Taking as our research subject the National Social Sciences Fund projects in the twelve provincial-level entities in western China under the 13th Five-Year Plan, we carried out statistical calculations on the approved projects on the basis of their annual trends, categories, systems, institutions and disciplinary distribution, and analyzed the output and influence of funded papers. Our findings show a steady increase in the number of approved projects in western China; in this region, ethnology and religious studies are the standout performers. Of the twelve provincial-level entities in the region, Shaanxi, Sichuan and Chongqing have the strongest research competitiveness in the humanities and social sciences, with a number of projects and funded papers that is close to or higher than national average. A comparative analysis of the situation in the western region compared to the eastern and central regions of China allows us to put forward suggestions and opinions for the development of the research competitiveness of the humanities and social sciences in western China.