AN INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO DIASPORA STUDIES

Abstract

The necessity of Diaspora Studies is rising fast in recent academia because of brand creation of diaspora culture, reinforcement of diaspora identity, building of cultural and economic networks, understanding of multicultural phenomenon, and development of experts in the global era. Diaspora studies need collaboration and networking with various academic disciplines for the time being.

Moreover, there are four characteristics diaspora studies as an academic discipline. First, the diaspora studies is a comprehensive science. Subject matters of diaspora studies are a wide range of areas of diaspora phenomena; like international migration, identity, political rights, multiculturalism and global networks. Second, Diaspora Studies is an applied science. An applied science solves matters, such as Diasporas’ human rights and conflict, appearing in diverse and sophisticated diaspora phenomena. As an applied field of individual science, a study on diaspora phenomena through application of advanced theories on the various fields of study; such as politics, sociology, anthropology geography, etc. Third, Diaspora Studies is an empirical science. After building, a hypothesis with theses acquired from diaspora phenomena experienced in verity of explaining theory and interpret the facts, and then construct a theory. Fourth, Diaspora Studies is a normative science. A science of targeting norms, as a subject of study within value-laden approach to judge what is a desirable value practical implication of theory, breaking down false consciousness or critical social science and political characteristics.

Key words: global diaspora, international migration, global network, identity, diaspora studies.