Computational Social Science
Lab at Penn

CSS unites computer science, statistics, and social science to solve challenging real-world problems using digital data and platforms. Through mass collaboration with industry, government, and civil society, our research generates insights that advance basic science in the service of practical applications.

Computational Social Science Lab at Penn

CSS unites computer science, statistics, and social science to solve challenging real-world problems using novel theories. Through our mass collaboration with industry, government, and civil society, our path-breaking research generates solutions which are both innovative and practical.

News

Can Social Media Be Less Toxic?
Can Social Media Be Less Toxic?

In an era where online interactions can be both motivational and toxic, researchers from the Computational Social Science Lab (CSSLab) at the University of Pennsylvania are interested in what encourages prosocial behavior — acts of kindness, support, and cooperation — on social media.

News On Climate Change Is More Persuasive Than Expected, Study Finds
News On Climate Change Is More Persuasive Than Expected, Study Finds

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, demanding urgent and effective action to mitigate its severe impacts. One barrier to effective climate change action is its polarizing nature largely driven by the media, as people prefer to consume news that aligns with their political beliefs. This tendency is especially strong among climate skeptics, who are more inclined to seek information that reinforces their views on climate change. In this context, communication—especially on social media—plays a crucial role in bridging cross-partisan boundaries. However, meaningful dialogue may be hampered if individuals do not believe these interactions will be effective.

From Cracks to Gardens: Creating a Thriving Social Media Through Research 
From Cracks to Gardens: Creating a Thriving Social Media Through Research 

Early advocates of social media believed that the creation of these platforms would lead to positive outcomes. When Facebook was launched in 2004, it was praised for its ability to “connect the entire world.” In hindsight, many of these ideals were optimistic at their time as social media platforms are often criticized for spreading hate and misinformation.

Over the past 100 years, social science has generated a tremendous number of theories on the topics of individual and collective human behaviour. However, it has been much less successful at reconciling the innumerable inconsistencies and contradictions among these competing explanations.

Duncan Watts
CSSLab Founder

Over the past 100 years, social science has generated a tremendous number of theories on the topics of individual and collective human behaviour. However, it has been much less successful at reconciling the innumerable inconsistencies and contradictions among these competing explanations.

Duncan Watts
CSS Lab Founder

Researchers & Staff

Meet the CSSLab