RT Article
T1 The Liberal Arts Paradigm for Interdisciplinary Studies
JF Journal of interdisciplinary studies
VO 31
IS 1/2
SP 161
OP 177
A1 Davis, Jeffry C.
LA English
PB Institute for Interdisciplinary Research
YR 2019
UL https://www.ixtheo.de/Record/1693351447
AB The conceptual framework of an Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) program shapes the quality, variety, and results of intellectual inquiry. While there are many viable paradigms for IDS programs, a liberal arts framework particularly enhances interdisciplinary inquiry. Specifically, a liberal arts approach emphasizes integrative thinking, conceptual synthesis, character formation, and coherence across bodies of knowledge. In harmony with the liberal arts, an IDS program equips students to productively wrestle with the inevitable dysfunction and complexity of this world. By situating the task of inquiry among multiple disciplines, interdisciplinarians cultivate ethical-moral discernment alongside fluency in differing modes of academic analysis. Additionally, when oriented towards the liberal arts, an IDS program counters the false pragmatism of careerism and specialization by producing creative critical thinkers who can thrive in a variety of fields. Contextualizing interdisciplinary studies within a liberal arts schema provides students with rich opportunities to unite the mind, the passions, and the will for greater flourishing.
K1 COHERENCE (Philosophy)
K1 Critical Thinking
K1 Ethics
K1 HUMANISTIC education
K1 INTERDISCIPLINARY education
K1 Personality Development