The Wissenschaftszentrum Berlin für Sozialforschung (Social Science Research Center Berlin) conducts basic social science research in selected problem areas. The Federal Republic of Germany and the Land Berlin have been shareholders and funders since 1976. The WZB is the largest institution of its kind in Europe. Around 140 social scientists conduct research on the developmental trends, problems of adaptation, and possibilities for innovation in modern societies.

http://www.wzb.eu/default.en.asp