Toward an Investigation of Metadisciplinarity: A Provocation in the Humanities.

This paper takes the position that "the general phenomenon of meta-disciplinarity should find a place in contemporary investigations into the organization and production of knowledge." In the meta-disciplinary triad of art, science, and the humanities, the humanities originated out of a distinction between the human and the divine. The history of the humanities meta-discipline from early factors such as the re-emergence of classical texts and the degradation of medieval Scholasticism and the extra-intellectual factors including economics, social change, political power, institutional development, and psychological formations. The paper also raises questions about the relationship of inquiries into values and worth raised by the humanities and those of theology, biblical studies, and other descendants of the divinities. It is suggested that investigation of the real motive powers and structuring influences behind discipline formation should be carried out with respect to the meta-disciplines of science and art as well. (Contains 16 references.) (MAH)