Innovation and leadership in computational social science's prevalent trend: implications to management science, public policy and social development

A group of prominent researchers recently introduced Computational Social Science (CSS) in a Nature article, highlighting its potential with a call for more institutional support. The companion composed by prevalent researchers sees no scientific limitations in CSS. However, this paper argues that despite CSS's popularity, it harbors scientific, methodological and philosophical shortcomings leading to a form of academic authoritarianism, highly consequential for Higher Education. It evaluates critically its impact on Management Science, Public Policy, and Social Development. While CSS appears promising, its current trajectory fails to deliver substantial innovation and leadership, misleading both leaders and policymakers. The paper advocates for alternative approaches within CSS, more useful for Higher Education and societal advancement.