Transformation of cultural studies into transdisciplinarity

Abstract

This article examines the matching emergence and development of cultural studies (CS) and transdisciplinarity (TD) following the 1960s social and political events in the West, out of which emerged, amongst others, poststructuralism and postcolonialism. It explores the emancipatory potential of CS in the 70s and 80s, and how it arguably gave way in the 90s to TD, focused as it is on praxis and problem-solving research. The South African chapter of CS is examined by pointing out available alternatives for TD research practice linking knowledge production sites within spheres involving the community, industry, and public institutions’ stakeholders. The argument elaborates on debates previously highlighted in Critical Arts.