Scholarly segregation

Date and country of first publication

2017
United States

Definition

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Scholarly segregation refers to the practice of separating and categorizing academic knowledge based on various criteria such as discipline, methodology, or subject area. It is the process by which academic knowledge is segmented into distinct fields, subfields, and specialized disciplines.

Scholarly segregation can have both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, it allows for focused study and specialization in specific areas, leading to deeper understanding and advancements in knowledge within those fields. It also enables scholars to collaborate and communicate more effectively within their respective disciplines.

On the negative side, scholarly segregation can create barriers between different disciplines, hindering interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-pollination of ideas. This can limit the opportunities for innovation and holistic understanding of complex phenomena that require multiple perspectives.

Moreover, scholarly segregation can perpetuate a hierarchal structure within academia, where certain fields or disciplines are considered more prestigious or valuable than others. This can result in unequal distribution of resources, funding, and recognition, further marginalizing less established or interdisciplinary fields.

Efforts to address scholarly segregation include promoting interdisciplinary research, encouraging collaboration across disciplines, and recognizing the value of broader knowledge integration. There is also a growing recognition of the need for interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex societal challenges that cannot be solved within the confines of a single discipline.

Overall, while scholarly segregation can have its benefits, it is crucial to actively foster collaboration, integration, and inclusivity in academia to promote a more comprehensive understanding of the world.

Further reading

Schwartz M. (2017) "Academic apartheid and the poverty of theory: the impact of scholarly segregation on the development of sociology in the United States", British Journal of Sociology, 68(1), pp. 49-66. Blackwell Publishing Ltd. DOI: [htttp://doi.org/10.1111/1468-4446.12242_2 10.1111/1468-4446.12242_2]