14. Two papers presented on the first day served the purpose of providing the background for the Expert Group Meeting. One paper began with the meaning, in ordinary usage, of the tenn "social indica­ tors" and followed with definitions attempted by various authors. The definitions ranged from the value-loaded definition of "statistics, statis­ tical series, and all other forms of evidence ... that enable us to assess 4 where we stand and are going with respect to our values and goals"4 to those relating to some area of social concern that may serve the purpose of curiosity, understanding or action. There were a number of intermediate definitions examined, each of which emphasized a specific aspect of the preceding definitions. 15. As an effort to refine the definition of social indicators, a number of delineations were suggested: (a) they were frequently normative (but not necessarily so) in their characteristics and in the context of their use; (b) they were preferably relevant to outputs rather than inputs, with the exception of using some of the latter as proxies for the former; ( c) they were comprehensive · or aggregative, pertaining to general well-being and social concern; and (d) they must belong to a structure or system of series to be genuinely indicative. 16. The purposes of social indicators were implicit and derived from the definitions examined above. They were used: (a) to summarize the state and changing conditions of society, pinpoint social problems and monitor effects of social policies and programmes; (b) to measure social conditions, societal performance and level of welfare; (c) to represent the hierarchy of social values and goals; and (d) to expand the understanding of social processes in order to provide a firm basis for social policies and planning. B. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK 17. Numerous attempts had been made to provide a conceptual 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing a conceptual framework for understanding and measuring social phenomena, including social problems, social policies, and societal performance. It does not seem to be focused on specific economic or industrial topics, but rather on broader social and societal issues.

**Category**
Health, Education, Employment, Culture