In today’s society, where technological advancements and economic pressures dominate the educational landscape, the value of humanities courses has often been called into question. However, far from being obsolete, the humanities remain a crucial component in shaping well-rounded, adaptable individuals who are prepared to navigate a complex, evolving world.
Despite the emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education as a driver of economic growth, humanities courses offer skills that are not only remunerative but essential for personal and professional success. Through their ability to foster critical thinking, ethical awareness and soft skills, the humanities contribute significantly to developing individuals who can thrive in today’s economy.
One of the most remunerative aspects of humanities education lies in the cultivation of soft skills. Contrary to the belief that technical skills alone drive success, many employers value the broad, flexible mindset that comes from a liberal arts education.
According to Forbes, “what we consistently hear from employers is that the difference between an adequate employee and a great one lies not in technical skills… but in the so-called ‘soft skills’ that a classical liberal arts education helps hone.” This demonstrates that, while STEM disciplines may teach technical proficiencies, humanities courses equip students with the interpersonal skills necessary to navigate complex work environments and solve multifaceted problems.
Moreover, the humanities promote intellectual curiosity and critical thinking, qualities that are essential in a rapidly changing world. A survey by the Association of American Colleges and Universities found that skills historically represented in a liberal education, such as independent thinking, flexibility of mind and collaborative problem-solving, are more important to employers than a specific undergraduate major.
The ability to think ethically and critically about the consequences of technological advancements is another area where humanities education proves beneficial. As society becomes more reliant on technology, there is a growing need for individuals who can navigate the ethical challenges that arise from these developments. The humanities, through their emphasis on ethics, literature, history and philosophy, provide a framework for understanding the human condition and the impact of technological progress on society. As Theo D’haens argues, “the humanities are necessary to determine the ethical boundaries of what technological innovation may or may not bring about, for the individual, for the collective, for humanity, for nature, for the planet.”
While some politicians and institutions have sought to marginalize the humanities in favor of STEM disciplines, this approach fails to recognize the broad, long-term benefits of a balanced education. In 2011, former Florida Governor Rick Scott suggested reallocating funding away from liberal arts programs like anthropology in favor of degrees that offered better job prospects.
However, this narrow focus on economic returns overlooks the fact that humanities graduates often possess skills that are highly transferable across industries. Degrees in the humanities provide individuals with the tools necessary to succeed in diverse fields, from business to education to government. In this sense, the humanities not only prepare students for specific careers but also cultivate a lifelong ability to learn, adapt and grow— qualities that are increasingly important in an economy where job roles are constantly evolving.
Furthermore, cutting funding for humanities programs risks making education more exclusive and limiting the opportunities available to students. As universities like West Virginia eliminate programs in world languages and creative writing to address budget deficits, they reduce the diversity of academic pursuits available to students. This narrowing of academic options limits students’ ability to pursue their passions and reduces the breadth of skills they can develop.
In contrast, a balanced education that includes both STEM and the humanities ensures that students can pursue a wide range of interests while acquiring a broad set of skills. This holistic approach to education prepares individuals to be more creative, adaptable and capable of finding success in various careers.
The humanities also play a crucial role in fostering societal cohesion and promoting ethical decision-making. Through literature, history and the arts, humanities courses allow individuals to engage with diverse perspectives and cultures, fostering empathy and understanding. This ability to connect with others and navigate complex social dynamics is increasingly important in a globalized world. By providing students with the tools to think critically about their place in society and the ethical implications of their actions, the humanities contribute to the development of individuals who can positively impact their communities and the world at large.
The humanities remain a vital component of education in today’s society. Through their emphasis on soft skills, ethical awareness and critical thinking, humanities courses prepare students for success in a wide range of careers. Rather than being sidelined in favor of STEM, the humanities should be recognized as a crucial part of a well-rounded education that promotes creativity, adaptability and ethical responsibility. By fostering a synergy between the humanities and STEM, society can ensure that students are equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s economy and beyond.
