Study of the Humanities Needs to be Reprioritized

The Importance of Humanities in Career and Personal Development

The idea for this blog post emerged during a peer grading session in a Science and Social Choice seminar course at my university. Upon reviewing my partner's feedback, I felt frustrated and disappointed by its lack of depth and personal touch.

• My partner used an overly structured, AI-generated feedback format, addressing me as "the student" despite knowing me personally.
• This experience led me to reflect on the broader issue of how educational institutions and the job market emphasize technical skills over soft skills like empathy, understanding bias, and interpersonal abilities.
• A recent National Association of Colleges and Employers survey revealed that 96.1% of employers consider communication skills very or extremely important for workplace success, yet only 53.5% of the workforce is considered proficient in this area.
• Humanities studies are crucial for developing these soft skills, as they foster critical thinking, empathy, and understanding of diverse perspectives.
• Despite the growing importance of humanities in the workplace, their study has declined significantly in recent years. For instance, the number of English majors has decreased by nearly half since the late 1990s, and humanities degrees have dropped by about a third between 2012 and 2022.
• Universities and educational institutions must play a pivotal role in helping students understand and apply this feedback effectively.
• Increased technological presence and social media usage correlate with lower social skills in adulthood, highlighting the importance of humanities courses in fostering engaged, face-to-face discussions.
• Research indicates that humanities courses enhance communication skills, empathy, and ethical reasoning in medical students, contributing to better patient care.
• Studying the humanities is beneficial beyond career development. It aids in coping with emotional challenges and provides a framework for understanding one's place in the world.
• Universities should prioritize humanities courses, degrees, and departments to equip students with the necessary tools for effective communication, improved career performance, and enhanced mental health.
• Ultimately, a strong piece of writing can help authors gain new insights and clarity about their identities and life goals.