Abstract

The integration of humanities perspectives into sustainable innovation research represents a critical advancement in addressing complex global challenges through culturally grounded, ethically informed approaches. This article reviews the evolution of sustainability discourse within humanities and social sciences scholarship, examining how interdisciplinary theoretical models and methodological frameworks are reshaping both academic understanding and practical applications for societal transformation. Drawing on sustainability ethics, social innovation theory, institutional governance perspectives, and socio-technical transition models, the analysis synthesizes contributions from multiple disciplines to propose integrated pathways for sustainable development. The review examines applications across three interconnected domains: policy and governance systems, urban planning and sustainable development, and education and socio-technical systems. Through critical analysis of participatory research methodologies, mixed-method approaches, and comparative global sustainability research, the article identifies both achievements and persistent challenges in humanities-based sustainability scholarship. Key findings emphasize the necessity of embedding cultural narratives, ethical considerations, and institutional contexts within innovation processes to achieve durable and equitable outcomes. The article concludes that interdisciplinary humanities perspectives provide essential interpretive frameworks for understanding resistance to change, enabling more nuanced policy design, and fostering the cultural shifts necessary for long-term sustainability transitions. Future research directions emphasize methodological pluralism, deeper integration of qualitative insights into policy frameworks, and sustained attention to ethical and cultural complexities in global sustainability governance.