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Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Perspectives on Neuroscience
Published on: July 31, 2007
Foundations of interdisciplinarity: a Lonergan perspective
1University of Calgary Medical Clinic, Calgary, AB, T1Y 6L4. sawa@ucalgary.ca
Abstract:
The postmodern enterprise, with its foundationlessness, fragmentariness, constructivism, and neopragmatism challenges interdisciplinarity. This paper discusses functional specialization and interdisciplinary method which provides a basis for interdisciplinary collaboration. In functional specialization, successive stages in the process of coming to know are distinguished. These stages correspond to Lonergan's four levels of consciousness, namely experiencing the data, coming to understanding through addressing questions which arise from the data, and judgment about which hypothesis best fits the data. Authenticity, which involves genuine attentiveness, intelligence, reasonableness, and responsibility, guides the appropriate attitude in interdisciplinary work.
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