Multidisciplinary Consciousness: A Spur for Intellectual Creativity and Collaboration

Abstract

The objective of this research paper is to provoke renewed interest in multidisciplinary research and collaboration among academic researchers. The paper is in seven parts, with the first being introductory remarks. Next is a brief discussion of the critical terms of the study which is followed by analytical insights on why academic specialization should be conducted in a manner that makes room for multidisciplinary collaboration. Other topics explored by the study include the root of scholarly insularity and the need to ensure that learning at the universities is carried out in a focused and inclusive way. The last two parts of the study draw upon concrete disciplinary linkages and examples to underscore the fact that academic researchers, via multidisciplinary collaboration, can benefit from the inter-related and inter-dependent nature of scholarly research. The paper is an expanded and updated version of a short commentary on the subject earlier written by the author.