Rangeland Ecology & Management

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Is Rangeland Research Driven by Discipline? An Analysis of the Rangeland Journal 1976-1999
Author
Witt, G. Bradd
Page, Manda J.
Publisher
The Australian Rangeland Society
Publication Year
2000
Body

We reviewed the Australian Rangeland Society's (ARS) principle publication, the Rangeland Journal (from 1976 to1999), with the aim of assessing its disciplinary focus over time. The rational for this study is that we all identify issues/problems differently, and that problem identification is often clouded by our culture. Research is about problem identification and the creative process of seeking solutions. Researchers too have their own 'culture' which is often strongly influenced through years of detailed and specific training. Specialization makes for efficiency, however, it can also narrow the way we define problems. It is broadly recognised that solutions to problems facing society require holistic vision that integrate/incorporate economic, social and biophysical approaches. However, our analysis of the Rangeland Journal indicates that social-cultural, economic, and trans- or interdisciplinary research is lacking in the Journal. The vast majority of articles in the Journal are focused primarily on the bio-physical sciences. This situation poses several key questions for the ARS.

Language
English
Resource Type
Text
Document Type
Conference Paper
Additional Information

August 21-24, 2000

Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia

ISSN 1323-6660
Conference Name
Australian Rangeland Society Centenary Symposium
Keywords
Australia