Transformations in the social sciences researchers’ profile: from classical intellectuals to modern academics

Abstract

Social, political and economic changes have effects on the role played by individuals in the structures where they work in such a way that their functions and activities are transformed. This paper is based on a reflection on the changes in the topics responsible for knowledge production and mobilization in social sciences. From a social and historical perspective, the methodology was based on the review of some aspects that impact the forms of knowledge production in researchers, for whom two ideal types were constructed for analytical purposes: the classical intellectual, who is a free, thinking and autonomous individual with a strong social and political commitment, and the modern academic, who adopts a subordinate, bureaucratized and institutionalized role within universities. The reflections provide some thoughts on the profile that should drive policies and strategies for improvement and professionalization, especially researcher training strategies.