Including psychiatry among the social sciences and using examples from his own experience as a psychiatrist, Rees discusses the manner in which a social scientist might play a role in shaping a better world. As Director of the World Federation for Mental Health, he seems eminently qualified to define and discuss this role. He feels that in so far as we have a social sense and a sense of responsibility, we must work to contribute to the resolution of the vast difficulties confronting our world today, but he wisely suggests that we temper our contributions with caution and great humility, and that what we offer be comprehensible to the vast majority of persons who must deal with these problems. Particularly in need of clarification is the understanding of aggression, racial intolerance, etc. While optimistic, Rees feels we must content ourselves with limited results. For those interested in this broad program he offers a point of view and place from which to start.