The social science film

Abstract

Since the so-called visual turn in the social sciences, more attention has been paid to the use of film. The general debate focuses mainly on two aspects: on the one hand, film as a method of data collection and analysis, on the other hand, film as a scientific output. This article discusses the challenges and potentials of producing social science films. Methodological and theoretical questions as well as practical questions of the actual film work are addressed. Central steps in the research process are discussed in their significance for film work. Conversely, central steps in the film process, such as editing, are presented in their significance for the research process. Finally, the consequences of an increased use of film in the social sciences will be examined in terms of their consequences for the scientific system, such as publication strategies.