The Research Center for Humanities and Social Sciences: Introduction In order to heighten the standard of research in the humanities and social sciences, to promote interdisciplinary academic integration as well as innovative, outstanding humanities and social sciences research, and to increase the value and influence of these fields of study, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), in accordance with the eighth point of the university's organizational regulations, has established the National Cheng Kung University Research Center for Humanities and Social Sciences (CHASS). CHASS's responsibilities include: (1) The integration of domestic and international resources and research capacities with those of NCKU's relevant departments and centers. (2) The strengthening of regionally focused research themes, and the development of research focused on the relationship between Taiwan and globalization. (3) The establishment of highly active, thematic research groups, and the training of young scholars in the humanities and social sciences. (4) The promotion of other research related to the humanities and social sciences.