Co-constructing Democratic Knowledge for Social Justice: Lessons from an International Research Collaboration

Abstract

Universities have a long history of supporting social change and social justice in the nations and societies where they are located. In recent decades, however, a changing political and economic landscape has threatened to isolate universities from societal debates on pressing issues. As universities find themselves in increasingly precarious financial situations, they are forced to sell their skills and the knowledge they produce to the highest bidder, rather than working with those in the greatest need. Nonetheless, the same drivers which can cut off universities from society can also open parallel opportunities for engagement with communities and civil society actors. In the past decade, with the advent of the knowledge economy, universities have also as a vital force for change and development. Global networks that actively promote universities as agents of change have begun to form. Particularly in the Global South, there is evidence of universities reasserting themselves as a force for social justice, as well as for using their research and teaching to deepen democratic change.

Thanks to Joanna Wheeler for her comments and collaboration. The authors may be contacted at jgaventa@stfx.ca or felixbivens@empyreanresearch.org.