Social Sciences Division

Ukraine's national language is Ukrainian, but many citizens grew up speaking Russian. Does that matter? Professor Laada Bilaniuk studies language and Ukrainian identity.

A few years ago, a tree poacher named Justin Wilke was charged with starting a forest fire while trying to steal a tree. The new documentary "The Maple Cutter" takes a deeper look. The UW's Lynn Thomas, professor of history, and Daniel Hoffman, professor of anthropology and of international studies, are interviewed.

Communication major Jean Wong shares the ups and downs of her UW study abroad experience in Rome. 

Professor Anand Yang grew up on Bollywood films. Now he uses this popular entertainment to teach colonial Indian history. 

A new study by the University of Washington and Indiana University finds that the growing use of anti-racist terms shows how Black Lives Matter has shifted the conversation around racism, raising awareness of issues and laying the foundation for social change.

Aseem Prakash, professor of political science, explains why the high price of gas is not an economic issue, but a political one.

Josh Reid, associate professor of American Indian studies, explains the Duwamish tribe's long struggle for federal recognition.

Michael Blake, professor of philosophy, discusses the leadership style of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his political strategy in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Taso Lagos, a lecturer in international studies, explores his new book and the influence that the U District Continental Restaurant had on generations of Seattlites.

Glennys Young, professor of history, explains Putin's goal in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the lengths he will go to achieve it.

John Koenig, a lecturer in international studies, explains why the recent conflict is extremely unlikely to lead to a direct military engagement with the U.S.

Scott Radnitz, associate professor of international studies, explains the importance of morale and popular opinion in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Laada Bilaniuk, professor of anthropology, explains her reaction to watching Ukraine under attack.

Jessica Beyer, co-leader of the Cybersecurity Initiative in the UW Jackson School of International Studies, explains how Americans may feel the effect of Russian cyberattacks.

Scott Radnitz, associate professor of international studies, discusses false flag attacks and how the concept may apply to the recent conflict in Ukraine.