Engaged Humanities: Rethinking Art, Culture, and Public Life

The humanities face challenges related to print culture, funding, and culture/society, but engaged research reveals the importance of thinking and rethinking the nature of art, culture, and public life.

Format: Hardback
Length: 362 pages
Publication date: 18 July 2022
Publisher: Amsterdam University Press

The humanities have faced numerous challenges in recent decades, including the future of print culture, shifts in funding strategies, and changes in culture and society. Several publications have addressed these challenges and potential responses on a theoretical level. However, this co-edited volume takes a different approach by presenting accessible case studies that demonstrate what humanities scholars contribute to concrete and pressing social debates about topics such as adoption, dementia, hacking, and conservation. These "engaged" forms of humanities research reveal the continued importance of thinking and rethinking the nature of art, culture, and public life.

The humanities have a rich history of contributing to social debates and addressing pressing issues. In the last few decades, however, they have faced a range of challenges that have threatened their future. These challenges include the future of print culture, shifts in funding strategies, and changes in culture and society.

Several publications have addressed these challenges and potential responses on a theoretical level. However, this co-edited volume takes a different approach by presenting accessible case studies that demonstrate what humanities scholars contribute to concrete and pressing social debates about topics such as adoption, dementia, hacking, and conservation. These "engaged" forms of humanities research reveal the continued importance of thinking and rethinking the nature of art, culture, and public life.

One of the key challenges facing the humanities is the future of print culture. With the rise of digital media, many scholars have questioned the future of print publications and the role of the humanities in shaping public discourse. This volume explores the ways in which humanities scholars are using digital media to engage with their audiences and to contribute to public debates.

Another challenge facing the humanities is shifts in funding strategies. Many universities and research institutions have been reducing their funding for the humanities, which has led to a decline in the number of humanities scholars and the quality of their research. This volume explores the ways in which humanities scholars are adapting to these changes and finding new ways to fund their research.

Changes in culture and society have also had a significant impact on the humanities. For example, the rise of globalization has led to increased cultural exchange and the spread of ideas, but it has also led to the marginalization of certain groups and the loss of cultural heritage. This volume explores the ways in which humanities scholars are working to address these issues and to promote cultural diversity and understanding.

In addition to these challenges, the humanities have also faced a range of opportunities. For example, the rise of digital media has opened up new opportunities for research and for the dissemination of knowledge. This volume explores the ways in which humanities scholars are using digital media to create new forms of art, literature, and media and to engage with their audiences in new ways.

Another opportunity facing the humanities is the increasing importance of interdisciplinary research. Many of the challenges facing the humanities are complex and require a multidisciplinary approach. This volume explores the ways in which humanities scholars are working with other disciplines to address these challenges and to create new knowledge.

Despite these challenges and opportunities, the humanities remain an essential part of our society. They provide us with a deeper understanding of the world around us and help us to develop critical thinking skills and a sense of empathy. They also play a vital role in shaping public discourse and in promoting social justice and equality.

In conclusion, the humanities have faced numerous challenges in recent decades, but they remain an essential part of our society. This co-edited volume presents accessible case studies that demonstrate what humanities scholars contribute to concrete and pressing social debates about topics such as adoption, dementia, hacking, and conservation. By exploring the ways in which humanities scholars are using digital media, adapting to shifts in funding strategies, and working with other disciplines, we can ensure that the humanities continue to thrive in the 21st century and beyond.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789463724029