Interdisciplinary Studies in the Humanities

Abstract Classical classification with two-value logic is the basis of most of the classification schemes, while with the emergence of interdisciplinary sciences, this has become challenging in properly determining their stance in the classification of science. The method adopted in this study is analytic consisting of document analysis and content analysis. In the first, applying the targeted sampling method, the texts and documents related to the subject are assessed and in second, 125 methods (75 science and 50 library-bibliographic classification). The information related to categories, subcategories, indicators, etc. are identified and registered in the checklists. Here, the census method is adopted. As to the 75 classification systems of science, the oldest is the Vedic classification. In relation to Bibliographic Classification Systems, 50 classification systems, they are of four categories of ancient, medieval, new and modern centuries. The study of main categories, and subcategories of classification of science systems and library-bibliographic classification systems indicate that basis of “division of science” or “division of written sources” in these systems are subject or field and interdisciplinary sciences are not considered in an independent manner. Therefore, we are faced with binary, triple, quaternary etc. in most library-bibliographic classification systems and in the classification systems of sciences, which are in fact derived from classical logic. The results of the research indicate that the interdisciplinary science fields lack an independent position in 125 classification systems. In brief, the fuzzy logic is proposed as a substitute methodology and logic in the classification of sciences and library references.

Abstract In Al Farabi and Avicenna point of view, Knowledge is synonymous with philosophy. This root divided to theoretical and practical branches. From these two derived different types of specialized sciences. In this cluster diagram come together two pictures of unity and plurality of specialized disciplines. However, this position is not the equivalent of modern disciplinary and interdisciplinary approach. It's not even equivalent of unity of these two together. This kind of Science is different of Science in modern period. This paper wants to show the Al Farabi and Avicenna point of view about Sciences is not the disciplinary and interdisciplinary approach. At the end, I use the word of Predisciplinary for Al Farabi and Avicenna's view.

Abstract It seems that the focus and emphasis on discipline and interdiscipline in the area of knowledge and episteme has a link to the knowledge classification and social and cultural relations of knowledge. The history of knowledge classification shows that the classification criteria are either ontological and moral or methodological and epistemological. The ontological basis is on the fact that existence is hierarchical; moral basis also depends on the amount of effectiveness and usefulness of the knowledge in providing the needs of practical life in individual or social dimensions. Contrarily, methodological basis is formed on the fact that methods for discovering the truth and proving the correct viewpoint are very various. Therefore, method of episteme acquisition in some knowledge is considered different and more complete than others. Similarly, any field of knowledge based on epistemologyhas emphasized on the truth system. The fact that which criterion should be used for knowledge classification also determines the knowledge owners’ trend towards discipline or interdiscipline. Considering this differentiation, “interdisciplinary” in the first instance has been brought up according to the moral and methodological basis and, contrarily, “discipline” has been obtained according to the methodological and epistemological basis. In the modern age, “discipline” has become the base of education and research due to the domination of the classification resulted from the method and truth criteria. But because of the shortcomings found in these criteria, once again ontological and moral criteria and consequently interdisciplinary came into consideration. Fluidity in the “method” criterion – as a means of classifying the knowledge -- has challenged the current boundaries, and taking into account the usefulness of knowledge for problem solving promises interdisciplinary collaborations in the future. Thus, this research studies this issue.

Abstract LIS as a field of study has had a lot of debate from its origin to be counted as an academic discipline. This is because some people think that it is originally practice based; others suppose that technology has greatly affected its identity. The author believes that the approach is not correct. It is not accurate to think that LIS is a discipline founded by library as a place, whereas the concept of LIS, and then as a task, responds to the real information needs of people. Anyhow, the author argues that all human disciplines are interdisciplinary in action, because man is multi aspectual in theory and practice, and LIS is like other disciplines. Thus, every field of study must be counted a discipline first, then interact with other disciplines in practice.

Abstract In this complicated modern world, humans are in need of general views in order to solve their roblems. It is only Interdisciplinary Studies which specially promotes the integrity of Academic Ground as well as researches conducted by specialists and therefore, leading tothe dynamism of educational system and the development and reforming of culture. In addition, interfering with content, research methodology, principles and approaches have removed common scientific borders. The fact is that progress in every field is highly in need of views by scientists in interdisciplinary studies, than the researches undertaken by the scientists in that field. The interdisciplinary scientistsdo not accept the realities and needs of the new world of the ultra fields which have one-sided, narrow, limited and specific structures. They find familiarity with interdisciplinary approaches and the need to know their roots necessary for curriculum specialists. They also consider interdisciplinary specialties quite essential for faculties and institutes on the lookout for reaching new borders and creating specific necessities in the scientific field, particularly the humanities.
This paper is prepared in three sections: in the first section, the introduction, the necessity and importance of history of interdisciplinary approachesaredescribed. In the second section, interdiscipline and its types are discussed. In the third section, educational polices and their specialists and users are pointed out and the related challenges are taken on. Finally, some results and suggestions are presented which briefly follows: 1) simultaneous applying of disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches in research domain; in other words, logic structure stands in parallel with the organization of various skills, both under equal focus. 2) Rationalization of philosophy of existing of interdiscipline among officials, and the internalization of these values in individuals. 3) Investment in this domain due to the necessity of proper education in all fields, conducting general and practicable researches and facilitating the developments in one field with the help of the other

Abstract Interdisciplinaries in Higher Education
 
Social problems which threaten future life of human beings and capacities of modern technologies in challenging those problems have increased the need to launch interdisciplinary course. During the past 40 years, such courses have been very useful for human societies and researchers have come up with new methods to combine scientific interest with large-scale skills. Therefore, faculty members and students have been attracted to such courses. This paper will study conceptual nature of interdisciplinary courses and explains some relevant experiences as well as their fortes and weaknesses. In conclusion, proposals will be offered for launching interdisciplinary course.