"A monumental and creative study by this country's eminent social science researchers characterized by adherence to the best traditions of social science research methods, an understanding of the place of an institution like the HSRC in the constitutional objectives of the country, and a solid vision about social science in the constellation of knowledge." —Barney Pityana, former Vice-Chancellor of UNISA

This scholarly reflection on state-based research commemorates the 90th anniversary of the National Bureau for Education and Social Research—South Africa's first public social research organization—and the 50th anniversary of its successor, the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC). The contributors delve into the rich archives of the HSRC in all its iterations and, notably, examine its relationship with the dominant political structures of successive eras. They also address the topical issue of the role of evidence and scientific knowledge in policymaking.