This article seeks to explore the influence that the Latin American Center for Social Science Research (CLAPCS) had on the social sciences in Rio de Janeiro between the 1950s and 1970s. By assessing some of its main initiatives (which comprised the launching of empirical studies, documentary work, and the edition of publications, including the famous journal América Latina ), it aims to show that, far from operating like an “enclave” – mostly oriented “toward outside”–, CLACPS was a relevant institution in Rio de Janeiro’s social sciences field. Not only did it multiply job opportunities for those who were interested in the social sciences but also contributed to encourage empirical research and editorial activities according to most “modern” and updated canons. This study is based on a large corpus which includes interviews with key informants and relevant actors, CLAPCS’ documents and publications, and newspapers.
Centro Latino-Americano de Pesquisas em Ciências Sociais (CLAPCS; UNESCO; Luiz Aguiar de Costa Pinto; Manuel Diegues Jr; Latin America