ALARA Monograph 6 Beyond the boundary - is there something called 'real knowledge'?

This paper contains four sections. The first explores six themes which are threatening our current sense of well-being and futures, ranging across the impact of neo-liberal marketization of the world economy, the continuing impact of poverty, the marginalisation of young people in a world of economic chance, the challenge of digital technologies to our identities and jobs and the loss of community and a sense of identity for many. The second section explores a specific place and culture - Nazareth in Palestine/Israel. The third section explores the transformations brought about by creative arts and dance therapies within a community based centre of arts and culture and learning. The fourth section attempts to assess some of the implications for learning and knowledge which engaging with these themes and issues brings into focus. A critical understanding of the qualities we need to be truly social and yet independent is required. The impact of IT and digitalisation is considered to be an emerging and ever more important force which impacts greatly on young people and their futures.