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Issues related to the state of the social sciences in the 21st century are examined, focusing on the self-defeating claims of academic subdivisions and the need for interaction among fields. Topics include attempts at pure economic theory, the use of historical time and systems theory in a multi-disciplinary approach, and the recognition of social links among cultures and countries.

Issues related to the advantages and disadvantages of forming distinct boundaries between the social sciences are examined. Topics include the importance of cross-discipline study, the need to approach scholarly reform with care, the nature of boundaries, economic globalization and the social sciences, and consideration of the scientific and philosophical meaning of space and time.

Educators in schools must realize the importance of stimulating the Locale Memory or the long-term memory of children, which is a smooth, natural process improving perception. Understanding how the brain functions shows that true learning is a physiological process and a permanent neurological change that engages students to help them function efficiently with the available information. True learning should be the watchword of public schools as it prepares students for an uncertain future.

The International Dunhuang Project at the British Library, London, is making Buddhist manuscripts available online. This use of digital technology for cataloguing and research needs to be increased and encouraged particularly by universities.