In an AI-driven, high-tech world, society finds little value in the humanities. But technology cannot replicate empathy, critical thinking skills, and human judgment. The intelligence of computer systems can’t match the intellect you gain by analyzing the world through art, anthropology, history, music, literature, languages, gender studies, political science, and philosophy.
Become a Student of Life
Earlier this year, I watched a video that brought tears to my eyes. It showed an anthropology professor, Professor John Friedman, from a university in the Netherlands, lecturing after being fired when their anthropology program was cut. Though no longer employed there, Professor Friedman stood outside the university, teaching a large crowd of students. These students were not getting college credits, but came because they found his lectures impactful. They were receiving something arguably more valuable than credits – a lesson in human resistance and resilience.
For years, society has told us that studying the humanities is useless. Instead, we see STEM-related fields as the key to success. But in reality, subjects like philosophy, language, and literature are the backbone of society. The humanities matter now more than ever. As Professor Friedman says, they teach us “to question power, to question how societies change,” and allow us “to find those human stories behind policies and actions.” Without knowing what it means to be human, science, technology, engineering, and math become irrelevant. Understanding the humanities means understanding the world and people in it.
My Experience Studying Language and Literature
As a young girl, I became captivated by stories. Even with nothing important to describe, I would write. And when I wanted to escape reality, I would read. In college, I studied two humanities majors: Spanish Education and English with a focus on writing, editing, and publishing. I learned more than just language and literature. The classes taught me about culture, history, marketing, teaching, design, and international relations.
Humanities studies like Spanish education and English offer a versatile range of knowledge about the world. Pursuing a humanities degree is the best path I could have chosen for myself. It allows me to adapt, think independently, and makes me eager to learn. My priorities differ from those in STEM fields, but that doesn’t make them any less important.
The Downfall of Human Connection
Many humanities programs suffer because of the desire for independent financial gain. If you are going to be in debt after getting a degree, you might as well get a high-paying job out of it, right? Many see STEM degrees as the logical choice. Rather than fostering interpersonal relationships or pursuing a passion, many prefer to cater to their own self-interests and pursue jobs with a high income attached.
However, this type of thinking puts money at the center of life, which inevitably leads to unfulfillment. And, as we see in history, capitalist ideals have led to an uprising against humanistic ones, overthrowing passion and compassion.
The humanities also struggle with over-reliance on technology and lack of “third spaces,” locations where people can unite outside of their work and home life. Think of cafes, libraries, and parks. Thanks to technology, people communicate on FaceTime or through text message instead of in person. This power of technology is convenient, but it ruins a sense of community.
Keep the Humanities Alive
When people doubt the success of those studying the humanities, they simply don’t understand the power they hold. Thinking for oneself, understanding dangers that can lead to societal collapse, and comprehending knowledge both logically and creatively are qualities that strengthen our world.
The death of humanities studies doesn’t just threaten academics; it threatens everyone. A lack of diverse perspectives, complex ideas, and critical thinking skills means a lack of societal progress. We need an evolution of ideas, not just technological advancements.
A downfall of humanities studies also means a lack of moral concern. In a tech-filled world, we need people to assess the morality behind innovations. The humanities can function in alliance with STEM, not in competition against it.
Though STEM is an invaluable part of our functioning society, the humanities are equally, if not more, important. Now, more than ever, we must let the humanities flourish and thrive.
Photo by Bonnie Kittle on Unsplash
Great article — it really highlights why studying the humanities is so important. Understanding history, philosophy, languages and culture helps us become more empathetic, think critically, and better understand the world and ourselves. Humanities give us insights that technical skills alone can’t provide. Wacky Flip
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In the age of technology, fnf mods, it is the understanding of people from humanities that keeps society profound and ethical.
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