Multi-, Cross-, Inter-, Transdisciplinarity – Fact or Fiction? Does Archaeology Need a Hand Blender?

Abstract

The concepts multidisciplinarity, interdisciplinarity (crossdisciplinarity), and transdisciplinarity are defined, and examples are given. Whether interdisciplinarity is a novel development, a “new buzzword”, or a “new status quo” is discussed. The examples contrast ideals versus realities, and also show what obstacles interdisciplinary research may meet, particularly regarding publication. Interdisciplinarity is described as a continuum with minimum and maximum ends. Examples of archaeological research, from both ends of this continuum, are offered. It is claimed that, in other sciences (specifically, medicine and psychology), “interdisciplinarity” is neither a buzzword nor a new concept and research strategy. It is, rather, “business as usual”, and “status quo”, and actually, is the case also in much archaeological research. The backdrop for the conflicts regarding interdisciplinary research is described as deriving from conflicts within philosophy of science. Yet, new positive and promising theoretical developments exist, along with new corresponding methodological developments. The conclusion is that various fields, theoretical positions, and methodologies need not compete, but may complement each other in problem-focused research.