This article is published as part of a collection on the future of research assessment. It explores the philosophies of Plato and Aristotle concerning the impact agenda and how philosophy can assist policy questions. Together, their work suggests that policy-sensitive philosophers can help decision makers be more self-conscious about the assumptions underlying their work.

This article examines whether the availability of Head Start during the Great Recession mitigated the impact of this crisis on poverty rates among families with young children. The findings provide clear, evidence-based policy recommendations. Increased federal funding for Head Start is needed to support families during a COVID-19 recession.