Amid an erosion of the perceived value of humanities education, teachers and professors of the social sciences work diligently to promote the values of empathy, critical thinking and cultural understanding. While encouraging students to explore the humanities, these educators also recognize the importance of balancing the study of human culture with scientific and mathematical fields to develop a complete and well-rounded education.
Within humanities-based courses, students learn essential skills and values that can be marketed to help them in future careers. As educational and professional spheres undergo digitalization, the field of humanities can often become overlooked. However, this field teaches students skills that are crucial to their success. Joseph Williams, an AP U.S. Government and Politics teacher at Wakefield, reflects on the importance of the humanities in the education of high school students.
“Even in an increasingly technological world, the humanities teach [students] to communicate with others and view the world through other viewpoints,” Williams said. “No matter how digital we get, being able to connect with others is a skill everyone needs.”…